Dr Monty Soutar’s novel Kāwai has been a runaway bestseller, telling the story of Aotearoa NZ like it’s never been told before. The first in a ground-breaking series, this epic historical adventure begins with Tāwae, as a 13-year-old boy, accompanying his father, Kū, to an attack on a rival pā – vividly illuminating the ways of war, peace and te ao Māori in pre-colonial times. Dr Soutar, a renowned historian, will provide insight into the story behind this significant series, how it has been channelled through his own whakapapa’s oral histories, and why he was inspired to share light on the ancient forces that have shaped contemporary Māori culture.

AUCKLAND WRITERS FESTIVAL 2023, WAITUHI O TĀMAKI THURSDAY 19 MAY 2023 – 1.25-2.10PM KIRI TE KANAWA THEATRE, AOTEA CENTRE