High Country Lark

By Neville Peat (Longacre Press, RRP $44.99)

High Country Lark

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History, when presented by a writer of Neville Peat's calibre, is an enjoyable as well an informative read.

And so it is in his latest book, High Country Lark, the third in the Lark series.

Author Neville Peat engages the reader in a relaxed, almost conversational style that captures the real essence of the Glenorchy area at the head of Lake Wakatipu, as told through his encounters with the area's present personalities and casual meetings with his old acquaintance The Lark.

Chapters, well supported by illustrations, discuss many of the issues that characterise the South Island high country, including the controversial question of land tenure and the demise of threatened native species such as the elusive and now probably extinct kokako.

Tales of the many personalities who shaped the Glenorchy area, such as, and probably the most colourful, Arawata Bill, are skilfully woven into the lively text that gives the reader an in-depth appreciation of the uniqueness that is Glenorchy and its rich heritage of early settlement, tourism, scheelite mining, farming and the iconic Glenorchy races.

Even in this modern age, Glenorchy and those who live there still manage to retain much of the laid back, back-country character that has attracted tourists, writers, artists and farmers for more than 100 years.

There is an extensive reference list of suggested further reading at the back of the book.

High Country Lark will appeal to all readers who have an interest in the South Island high country, its land, people, flora and fauna and Glenorchy in particular.

- © Fairfax NZ News