New Zealand: Being a Narrative of Travels and Adventures During a Residence in that Country between the Years 1831 and 1837 (2 Volumes) de Polack, J.S. (Joel Samuel) - 1838

London: Richard Bentley, 1838. First Edition . Hardcover. Near Fine/No Jacket. Volume I: xii, [1] 403 pp. 6 b/w plates. Folding map. *As Found; all plates & map from each volume are gathered in volume one. Volume II: vi, 441 pp. Errata. Page 435 incorrectly follows pg, 440. Rebound in brown cloth with red leather title labels. J.S. Polack (1807-1882) lived in New Zealand during 1831-37 and 1840-50. As an enterprising businessman and land speculator, Polack traded in timber and flax and in 1835 set up the countries first brewery. He also learned the Maori language and warned against the destructive effects of unorganized European settlement on Maori society, while arguing the benefits of systematic colonization. This two volume work, published in 1838, was the first of two successful books Polack published about his experiences in New Zealand, and is still regarded as an important and impartial source about the period immediately before the Treaty of Waitangi. The Treaty, signed in 1840, established a British Governor of New Zealand, recognised Maori ownership of their lands and other properties, and gave the Maori the rights of British subjects. Volume I outlines the discovery of the islands, their climate, geology, fauna and population. Volume II focuses on Maori material culture, traditional beliefs, and warfare (including lurid reports of cannibalism), and on the early interactions of Maori and Europeans through the trade missions and whaling. Additional photos available if required. Inquiries welcome.