Author(s): Hamish Campbell; Gerard Hutching

NZ History/Society

'In Search of Ancient New Zealandis terrific . . . richly and enticingly illustrated, detailed without being overwhelming, intelligent but understandable, always diverting, it deserves to be widely read.' - Warren Judd, New ZealandGeographicNew Zealand is one of the most dynamic landscapes in the world. The evidence is everywhere- soaring mountains, fiery volcanoes, grand fiords, brawling rivers and spectacular lakes. Plants and animals known nowhere else in the world have evolved over millions of years in splendid isolation. How did this happen? What processes brought about such momentous transformations? The bestselling In Search of Ancient New Zealandreveals startling new information about this country's natural history- New Zealand is actually part of the 'lost' continent of Zealandia, a landmass almost half the size of Australia. Most of New Zealand's plants and animals are not remnants from Gondwanaland 83 million years ago but have arrived much more recently. Contrary to accepted theory, New Zealand may have been completely submerged under the sea 23 million years ago. If New Zealand was completely under water, where did the unique kiwi, kakapo, kokako and other special animals come from? A number of native land mammals used to dwell in New Zealand, whereas today there are only two species left - both bats. Why did these mammals disappear? Co-written by geologist Dr Hamish Campbell and award-winning author Gerard Hutching, this revised edition updates recent developments in the Zealandia drowning controversy. ' A significant book . . . a valuable introduction to the history of New Zealand.' - Howard Williams, Weekend Press