Travels in New Zealand is an insightful and highly informative account of Ernst Dieffenbach's exploration of the diverse landscapes of New Zealand. From the rugged mountains to the pristine coastlines, Dieffenbach provides detailed descriptions of the geography, geology, botany, and natural history of this captivating country.

What sets this book apart is Dieffenbach's keen observations and in-depth analysis of the natural world around him. His passion for exploration and discovery shines through in his vivid descriptions of the flora and fauna, as well as his interactions with the indigenous Maori people.

Dieffenbach's writing is engaging and easy to follow, making this book a captivating read for anyone interested in the natural wonders of New Zealand. Whether you're a budding explorer or simply a nature enthusiast, Travels in New Zealand is a must-read for anyone looking to learn more about the breathtaking beauty and rich history of this remarkable country.

Book Description:
“Let the reader imagine a deep lake of a blue colour, surrounded by verdant hills; in the lake several islets, some showing the bare rock, others covered with shrubs, while on all of them steam issued from a hundred openings between the green foliage without impairing its freshness: on the opposite side a flight of broad steps of the colour of white marble with a rosy tint, and a cascade of boiling water falling over them into the lake!” Such is Ernest Dieffenbach’s description of his first glance of the White Terraces in Lake Rotomahana, see cover image. Johann Karl Ernst Dieffenbach traveled to New Zealand between 1839 and 1841 employed by the New Zealand Company as naturalist. He traveled in the Marlborough Sounds at the top of the South Island and extensively throughout the North Island at an early time in European settlement. In Volume I of “Travels in New Zealand” he describes his travels, integrating his observations of the natural world with the progress of colonisation, and a humane account of the Māori people that he met and their culture, settlements and inter-tribal politics. He made an important contribution to the early knowledge of the New Zealand flora and fauna, with his collections eventually being lodged in the British Museum and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Note: Māori words have been pronounced as spelled in the text, which is occasionally different to modern spelling and pronunciation.