Acknowledge No Frontier

Discover the intriguing journey of New Zealand's provincial history with 'Acknowledge No Frontier' by André Brett. This expertly crafted paperback dives deep into the unique structure of New Zealand as a unitary state, contrasting it with other British settler societies like Australia, Canada, and South Africa. Printed in an ideal size of 170 x 240 mm and consisting of 346 pages, this compelling book was published by Otago University Press on June 13, 2016. Brett investigates the creation of provinces from 1853 to 1876, exploring vital questions about the motivations and consequences of provincial governance. Gain insights into how settlers influenced institutions and the political landscape, leading to the eventual abolition of provincial governments. Delve into the flaws that permitted the central government to leverage public works, particularly the railway projects, to consolidate authority and garner public support. 'Acknowledge No Frontier' also highlights the enduring legacy of this provincial era, revealing how powerful local identities and interests ultimately united New Zealanders. This essential read for history enthusiasts and scholars alike illuminates a crucial chapter in New Zealand's past, offering a captivating perspective on the tensions between localism and centralization. This book is perfect for those seeking to understand the complexities of New Zealand's governmental evolution and the historical dynamics that have shaped national identity.

Author: Andre Brett Publisher: Otago University Press
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 170 x 240 mm
Pages: 346
Publication Date: 13-06-2016

While other British settler societies - Australia, Canada, the US and South Africa - have states or provinces, New Zealand is a unitary state. Yet New Zealanders today hold firm provincial identities, dating from the time when the young colony was divided into provinces: 1853 to 1876. Why were the provinces created? How did settlers shape and change their institutions? And why, just over 20 years later, did New Zealand abolish its provincial governments? Acknowledge No Frontier, by André Brett, is a lively and insightful investigation into a crucial and formative part of New Zealand’s history. It examines the flaws within the system and how these allowed the central government to use public works - especially railways - to gain popular support for abolition of the provinces. The provincial period has an enduring legacy. This is the surprising and counterintuitive story of how vociferous parochialism and self-interest brought New Zealanders together.