In an earlier study, Yates (mission studies, U. of Uppsala, Sweden) included a chapter on Christianity in New Zealand after 1842, but had become aware since then of the large-scale movement of Maori into the Christian churches during the 30 years previous. To study that phenomenon, he has had to rely largely on the voluminous archives of missionary societies, despite the dangers of bias and distortion. Among his topics are Maori society before European contact, Methodist beginnings and destruction at Whangaroa 1819-27, the Church Missionary Society in Kerikeri and Paihia 1823-30, the Marists in New Zealand 1838-42, and the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi. Annotation 2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
