Te Kupenga

Stories of Aotearoa New Zealand told through 101 objects

Published to mark 100 years since the establishment of the famous Alexander Turnbull Library, one of New Zealand’s great storehouses, this energetic, comprehensive book approaches the history of Aotearoa New Zealand through 101 remarkable objects. Each tells a story, be it of discovery, courage, dispossession, conflict, invention, creation, or conservation. The objects range from letters and paintings to journals, photographs, posters, banners and books. The place each has in the patchwork of the narrative creates a vivid overall view of the people of this place and the unique histories they have made together.

An invaluable resource for schools and the home, and a great way to dive into our history, Te Kupenga takes us deep inside the remarkable Turnbull collection and sheds light on who we are.

To look inside, click here.

‘Here is a wunderkammer of a book, a cabinet of curiosities with something delightful and diverting on every page’ — Paul Little, North & South

‘Stories such as these are pivotal to understanding Aotearoa’s past and current societal behaviours.’ — Ash Damini, Kete Books

‘Te Kupenga is a superb introduction to the Alexander Turnbull Library and an open invitation to engage more directly with its rich and evolving collections’ — Vaughan Yarwood, New Zealand Geographic