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Writer's pictureNZ Booklovers

Mountains, Volcanoes, Coasts and Caves by Bruce W. Hayward


Mountains, Volcanoes, Coasts and Caves is an impressive book that introduces the reader to the natural wonders of Aotearoa New Zealand. We are in capable hands as respected geologist and marine ecologist Bruce W. Hayward takes us on a journey of 100 natural wonders of Aotearoa.


We go from Whakaari / White Island and Huka Falls to the Moeraki Boulders and Milford Sound, from Mt Tarawera to the Kaikoura Peninsula to Stewart Island, and many more places!


Bruce includes explanatory diagrams with his well-considered text, and there is stunning aerial photography by Alastair Jamieson and Lloyd Homer.


I was fascinated by the book but particularly enjoyed learning more about the Kautu Bolder in Hokianga – our largest spherical concretions, the Gothic arch of Cathedral Cove, the doughnut-shaped concretions at East Cape, and one of the longest sand spits of the world at Farewell Spit.


This is a must-have book for anyone interested in our awe-inspiring geology, and reading this book makes me realise how unique Aotearoa is on the world stage. What a magnificent country we live in! This book handsomely showcases our natural wonders with readable but authoritative text and fabulous photography.


Reviewer: Iain McKenzie

Auckland University Press

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