Cook's Wild Strait: The Interisland Story

Macintyre, David; Field, Michael; Quinn, Christine

ISBN 10: 0589014498 / ISBN 13: 9780589014490

Published by Wellington, N.Z. , A.H. & A. W. Reed Ltd., 1983

About this Item

A very good plus to fine minus copy in a fine minus, mylar protected DJ, 1st edition; Book boards have a slight amount of bowing and back board has a small (1/16") discoloration spot. Some light wear to DJ and DJ edges. Overall, a nice copy of a relatively uncommon book that tells the colorful story of New Zealand's Cook Strait and its history of whaling, wars, and ignoble deeds and shipwrecks. No names or internal markings, oblong 8vo., 167 pages ncluding index and bibliography: p. 161-163. 0.0 0.0 0.0. Seller Inventory # 17132

Bibliographic Details

Title: Cook's Wild Strait: The Interisland Story

Publisher: Wellington, N.Z. , A.H. & A. W. Reed Ltd.

Publication Date: 1983

Binding: Hardcover

Condition: Very Good

Dust Jacket Condition: Fine

Edition: 1st Edition.

About this title

Synopsis:

Dust-jacket reads: The shapely steamers and picturesque little scows have now disappeared from its waters, but Cook Strait still has a fascinating story to tell. In Cook's Wild Strait the authors describe a colourful history of whalers, wars, ignoble deeds - and, of course, the amazing tale of Pelorus Jack. They tell of the heyday of small shipping lines, which once gave character to travel and trade between the North and South Islands. They also look behind the scenes of a modern rail ferry voyage across the strait and trace the rise and fall of the Wellington Lyttelton steamer express service and its "blue ribbon" fleet. Although the strait lies quiet at times - when swimmers, aviators and navigators of small craft rise to its challenge - it is known by mariners as one of the worst stretches of water in the world. The accounts of shipwrecks in this book, including a complete chapter on the fatal foundering of the Wahine, provide convincing evidence. Whether in an angry mood reflecting its violent geological origins or calmed by favourable weather, the strait has always been a scene of adventure and enterprise. Cook's Wild Strait is not only a record of milestones in New Zealand's history; it is also an impressive story of human endeavour.