Heathcote Valley Online

[Phillips & King Publishers have published a fully revised and updated edition of The Port Hills Of Christchurch by Gordon Ogilvie. Publication date: 8 October 2009. Info at bpbooks at xtra.co.nz.]

In the 30 years since The Port Hills of Christchurch was first published it has become a collector's item - a prized resource for all those in Christchurch, and beyond, who cherish the hills that dominate the city's southern skyline.

Gordon Ogilvie, himself a child of Horotane Valley, has proved a deeply knowledgeable, approachable and articulate guide to the history, people and topography of this endlessly interesting area, which stretches from Godley Head to Gebbies Pass.

Now, after a great deal of new and meticulous research, this award-winning historian has updated and greatly extended The Port Hills of Christchurch, and added many fascinating photographs. This area already had a long and vivid Maori history before Europeans arrived. Since then it has attracted some of the province's most talented and influential citizens, who have played a key role in the development of the Canterbury Settlement.

The Port Hills are justly renowned for their social, scenic and scientific importance, and the visionary endeavours of pioneer conservationist, Harry Ell, form an important part of the story. Now also part of a new political electorate, the Port Hills are of greater importance than ever as a residential and recreational locality.
 
This new edition is certain to prove as popular as its predecessor, a treasured source for all who live, walk and work within sight of these picturesque and historic hills. There are chapters on Heathcote Valley, Butts Valley & Horotane and Avoca Valley with many interesting historic photos.