In Kiwi: A Curious Case of National Identity, Richard Wolfe embarks on a vibrant exploration of New Zealand’s unique cultural emblem, the kiwi. As both a Kiwiana enthusiast and cultural historian, Wolfe’s perspective is well-suited to chart the fascinating transformation of the kiwi — once merely the Māori name for a reclusive, flightless bird, now a versatile symbol deeply embedded in New Zealand’s identity. From signifying an individual New Zealander to serving as a global brand name, Wolfe traces how the kiwi has transcended its humble origins to become one of New Zealand's most celebrated symbols.
Wolfe's book is as much a visual delight as it is a narrative journey. Through extensive colour illustrations, photographs, and ephemera, he transports readers into the evolution of the kiwi's image and association with New Zealand. Wolfe examines how the bird’s appearance in cultural, commercial, and political settings began as early as the mid-19th century, with Māori people recognizing the bird’s feathers as significant enough to feature in prestigious kahu kiwi (cloaks). Wolfe adds that, despite the kiwi's status as an “unofficial” national emblem, its image was appropriated widely, appearing in advertising logos for various products, including the famous Kiwi shoe polish — a connection that played a prominent role in making the kiwi a recognized symbol worldwide.
The book goes beyond the bird itself, delving into the broader concept of “kiwi” as a term that reflects the national character. Wolfe discusses how New Zealand soldiers first earned the nickname "Kiwis" during World War I, a designation that further cemented the kiwi as a symbol of collective resilience and identity. This naming gained even greater significance post-war, especially with the iconic Kiwi landmark chalked by New Zealand soldiers on the hills of Sling Camp in England, a reminder of their presence in Europe and, inadvertently, a landmark that had to be concealed during World War II for fear it might aid German navigation.
Wolfe’s study also tackles more complex discussions around the kiwi, acknowledging moments when the bird’s use has been culturally sensitive, and, at times, simply appropriated. For instance, he addresses how companies and institutions in New Zealand, as early as the 1850s, adopted Māori symbols and terms to boost branding, often with little regard for their significance. Wolfe carefully critiques these instances, emphasising that while the kiwi has become a source of national pride, its commercialisation often skirts the line of cultural insensitivity, a reality that remains relevant in today's globalised world.
Kiwi: A Curious Case of National Identity is not merely an academic inquiry but also an entertaining and informative narrative that will appeal to history buffs, New Zealanders, and Kiwiana collectors alike. Wolfe’s approach is insightful and accessible, making this exploration of identity as engaging as it is enlightening. By capturing the bird’s transformation from a secretive native animal to a universally recognized symbol of New Zealand, Wolfe reveals the kiwi as not just a national icon, but a reflection of the adaptive, inventive, and proudly independent spirit of New Zealanders. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the curious, complex nature of national symbols and the stories they tell about the people they represent.
Reviewer: Chris Reed
Oratia Books