The Meeting Place - A New Zealand History Blog

The Invasion of Waikato/Te Riri ki Tainui , to be released late in August 2024, provides a new and concise account of this defining event in Aotearoa New Zealand history. The following outline is taken from the book page on the Bridget Williams Books website.   The Waikato War is a pivotal event in the history of Aotearoa. In this accessible introduction, Vincent O’Malley explains the enduring impact of these conflicts, continuing his remarkable work on the New Zealand Wars. The book begins with the 1863 crossing of the Mangatāwhiri River by British troops. This act marked the Crown’s declaration of war against the Waikato tribes, igniting a conflict with far-reaching consequences. At its heart, the war was a clash between the Crown’s push for control and Māori insistence on self- governance, a right affirmed in Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The resulting conflict has shaped the nation for over a century, more influential, O’Malley argues, than even New Zealand’s involvement in

The fifth chapter of this series, presented by Mihingarangi Forbes and featuring Dr Vincent O'Malley alongside esteemed iwi historians, NZWars: Stories of Tauranga Moana recounts the events that unfolded in the Bay of Plenty and their far-reaching consequences for future generations of New Zealanders.     NZ Wars: Stories of Tauranga Moana  is centered on two key encounters: the Battle of Pukehinahina Gate Pā and the Battle of Te Ranga.   Extended interviews and extra scenes are also available, along with an accompanying podcast series .

In the past twelve months I have taken part in a number of different talks and events alongside other participants.     Here, I provide links to those available to view online, organised chronologically.   Prime Minister's Awards for Literary Achievement, February 2023 An online panel discussion with the 2022 recipients of the Prime Ministers Awards for Literary Achievement:   • Fiction: Stephanie Johnson – a celebrated and popular author of twelve novels, as well as poetry, short stories, and writing for stage and television • Nonfiction: Vincent O’Malley - a distinguished author and historian of the New Zealand Wars and Te Tiriti o Waitangi • Poetry: James Norcliffe – an acclaimed poet and writer for children and young adults, as well as a prolific editor and poetry champion   All three writers will read and discuss their work with award winning writer and broadcaster, Nick Bollinger.     Scarred Nations Symposium, Auckland Museum, April 2023 Scarred City: Tāmaki Makaurau and t

Dr Vincent O'Malley has been awarded the Humanities Aronui Medal for his contribution to the research, knowledge, and public understanding of New Zealand history, particularly of the New Zealand Wars and Māori-Pākehā relations throughout the nineteenth century. Dr Vincent O'Malley has been at the forefront of efforts to ensure New Zealanders take ownership of their history.    He was prominent in the push to have New Zealand history taught in all schools, supporting the campaign started by Ōtorohanga College students in 2014.    His public engagement is backed by his scholarship, including several books on the New Zealand Wars.      Vincent’s current research includes a Marsden research project, co-led with Professor Joanna Kidman, tracing shifting historical perspectives of the New Zealand Wars.      Vincent’s internationally

The fourth chapter in RNZ’s NZ Wars series examines the events that led to the first armed conflict between Ngāti Toa, the New Zealand Company and Nelson settlers just three years after the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. NZ Wars: Stories of Wairau , produced by the Aotearoa Media Collective and Great Southern Television for RNZ, documents the clash that took place on 17 June 1843 between renowned Ngāti Toa fighting chiefs Te Rauparaha and Te Rangihaeata and the notorious New Zealand Company. Wairau Memorial at Tuamarina Cemetery (photo: Vincent O'Malley) The documentary examines the events that led to this conflict and its consequences which continue to reverberate nearly two centuries on. Presented by Mihingarangi Forbes and featuring Dr Vincent O’Malley and esteemed iwi historians Sir Matiu Rei, Kahu Ropata, Miria Pomare and Lloyd Carpenter, NZ Wars: Stories of Wairau explores the events that shaped our country and their ongoing influence in contemporary Aotearoa New Ze

It was truly humbling to be named as the recipient of the 2022 Prime Minister’s Award for Literary Achievement for Non-Fiction this week. Prime Minister Rt. Hon Jacinda Ardern commented, ‘Every year I’m delighted to have the opportunity to honour the incredible contribution of three of our most talented writers. Congratulations to Stephanie Johnson, James Norcliffe and Vincent O’Malley. The awards recognise not only their literary achievements, but also the significant impact their work has had on the cultural landscape of Aotearoa.’ Arts Council Chair Caren Rangi said, ‘Warmest congratulations to Stephanie, James and Vincent. Your work across all genres has been vital in helping readers to see themselves, to advance important cultural discussions, and to bring moments of joy, humour and beauty.’ Members of the public will get the chance to enjoy readings and discussions from the winners in an online event next February. More details to come .