Monday, June 08, 2009


ROTORUA: Stories Behind the Scenery
Sue Hall and Mike Hollman
RRP $19.99 – PB – Hodder Moa

This new title being published later this week enables the reader to enjoy stunning photographs that reveal the unique beauty of Rotorua and also learn the intriguing stories behind the scenery.

Rotorua is one the North Island’s most popular tourist destinations for both Kiwis and overseas visitors alike. In 2007 there were an estimated 2.9 million visitor arrivals. Mike Hollman’s distinctive photographs highlight the unique beauty of the region, and Sue Hall’s text provides the reader with information about the unique geology, thermal activity, the Maori mythology, and the sports and activities on offer.

This book, and the companion volume on Queenstown, represents great value at this price, these two titles are the best of their kind I have seen in a long while.

Mike Hollman has been a freelance photographer, specialising in travel and landscape photography, for the last 10 years and he has worked in the travel industry for 20 years. His photographs have appeared in AVA photography guides, on calendars and postcards and in international photography libraries.
Sue Hall is a writer and editor. She has written , Auckland with a View, Spectacular NZWalking in the Hauraki Guff and Clever Girl’s Fix It Guide.


QUEENSTOWN: Stories Behind the Scenery
Sue Hall and Mike Hollman
RRP $19.99 – PB – Hodder Moa


Being published simultaneously with Rotorua this equally impressive title provides gorgeous photos of the Queenstown region and tells the stories behind such beautiful scenery.

Queenstown is the ‘adventure capital of New Zealand’ – and the district attracts up to 1.2 million visitors every year. Mike Hollman’s stunning photographs highlight the unique beauty of the region, and Sue Hall’s text provides the reader with information about the geology, history, people and the sports and activities on offer. The book covers the Queenstown and the surrounding lakes, Glenorchy, Kingston, Arrowtown, Kawarau River, Gibbston Valley and the Wanaka district.

This is not just another photographic book – it is also an insightful look at the stories behind the scenery. I hope the publishers have plans to do further titles in this series using this talented pair.

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