Wi Pere Book Launch; Rongopai Marae, Patutahi, Gisborne Friday 19 November 2010;

A great occasion in Gisborne on Friday 19 November, with the launch Libro International's newest book, Wiremu Pere: The Life and Times of a Maori Leader, 1837–1915. It was an honour to be there with the descendants of Wi Pere to celebrate their tupuna at the beautiful Rongopai marae.

Among the distinguished guests and speakers present was the Hon Tariana Turia, co-leader of the Maori Party, who opened her speech describing Wi Pere as “a remarkable man, a man of mana, a man well before his time.”

You can read her full speech by clicking here.

A most memorable oration was given by Rose Pere, speaking for herself and her husband, the author Joe Pere. Among other speakers were Lewis Moeau, Maori Advisor to the Prime Minister, Gisborne Mayor Meng Foon, Wi Pere Trust Chairman Alan Haronga, and Wi Pere Trustee Kingi Smiler.

Rose Pere signing a copy of the book for Gisborne Mayor Meng Foon.

At the reception for the book Wiremu Pere

From the Gisborne Herald Saturday 20 November

Wiremu Pere: The Life and Times of a Maori Leader, 1837–1915

RRP $90.00

Jacketed hardback, 240 x 180 mm, 440 pp, includes foldout deed and maps

Available from good bookstores, or from Publishers Distribution Limited,

tel: 09 828 2999 fax: 09 828 2399 email: orders@pubdist.co.nz

ISBN 978-1-877514-09-8

Links:

Gisborne Herald 16 November: to read the article click here

Beattie's Book Blog, click here

We Pere Trust, click here