Explore the rich history of the Akaroa Cocksfoot, a grass seed that once dominated the agricultural landscape of New Zealand and beyond. This paperback book by Vaughan Wood delves into the fascinating journey of Akaroa cocksfoot seed from its introduction to Banks Peninsula in the mid-19th century through its rise to prominence in global markets. At the height of its success, the Akaroa cocksfoot industry generated over $10 million annually, influencing both the local economy and the natural environment. This compelling narrative uncovers the intertwined stories of farmers, harvesters, seed merchants, and the engineering firms that played a vital role in the industry's development. Understand the political, scientific, and world trade influences that shaped this unique story, which has had significant impacts not only on Canterbury but also internationally. With 148 pages of insights, this book is perfect for anyone interested in agricultural history, local ecology, and New Zealand's cultural heritage. Discover how the Akaroa cocksfoot seed industry impacted the landscape and left a lasting legacy on the local seed industry from its peak in the early 1900s to its decline in the mid-20th century. Join us in celebrating a remarkable chapter in New Zealand's agricultural story with 'Akaroa Cocksfoot'. We offer combined shipping, and since this product is in stock in NZ, you can enjoy a hassle-free purchase with no unexpected import charges, customs duty, or tax.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 148 x 210 mm
Pages: 148
Bind: paperback
Author: Vaughan Wood Publisher: Canterbury University Press
Publication Date: 30-11-2014

Soon after the introduction of cocksfoot to Banks Peninsula in the mid-19th century, Akaroa cocksfoot grass seed conquered the market - first in New Zealand, then in Australia, and finally in Europe. At the height of the industry, Akaroa cocksfoot was one of the most significant industries in Canterbury, with annual earnings for Banks Peninsula of more than $10 million per annum. It was responsible for the loss of almost all the Peninsula's unmillable forest. And yet, a generation or two later, the Akaroa cocksfoot seed industry has almost entirely disappeared. More than a century after the industry reached its peak, Vaughan Wood celebrates its remarkable story. The history of Akaroa cocksfoot is one that embodies many facets of Canterbury life: the farmers and harvesters, the seed merchants, and the engineering and transport firms. It was shaped by the science, politics and world-trade patterns of the time and is thus a story with more than just local interest, This fascinating narrative includes: * The history of the Akaroa cocksfoot seed industry, from the introduction of cocksfoot seed into New Zealand, through the start of its international success in the early 1880s and its peak around the turn of the 20th century, to the end of the industry in the 1950s and 1960s. * A detailed look at the industry in its heyday, following the journey taken by the seed from the growing crop to the traded commodity. * Recognition of the lasting legacy Akaroa cocksfoot has left on both the landscape and the local seed industry in New Zealand.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.