In Defence of Our Land: A Tour of New Zealand's Historic Forts

On Sunday 20 June in the former Officers’ Mess on the Fort Takapuna Historic Reserve Russ Glackin launched his latest work "In Defence of Our Land: A Tour of New Zealand's Historic Forts", not with a bottle of Champagne, but, more appropriately, with some mulled wine and an impressive array of snacks.

It was a great friends and family affair with Russ being introduced by his daughter. Russ, with grandchildren around his feet, who were hanging on his every word, chose to illustrate his introduction with digital images of examples to whet the appetites of those who had not already bought a copy from Phoenix books strategically placed at the door. It was a very appropriate location for the launch as Fort Takapuna is featured on the cover, and, not surprisingly, in the main body of the book. The hardier souls at the launch were then able to tour Fort Takapuna and emerge from underground just as the sun was setting, the temperature dropping, and Russ loading the glasses into his car. It was a good launch and all present wish the book, published beautifully by Penguin, every success.

Mike Pritchard

Michael Pritchard is Chair of The Tamaki Reserve Protection Trust and works with DOC and pupils from Takapuna Grammar School on the restoration of elements of Fort Takapuna. Book Launch at Fort Takapuna.

In Defence of Our Land – A Tour of New Zealand’s Historic Harbour Forts, by Russell Glackin. Penguin Books, ISBN9780143011866, $40