Arawata Bill (3rd Edition)

The story of legendary gold prospector William James O'Leary

Ian Dougherty

Arawata Bill (1865–1947) was a pioneering folk hero. He spent decades in the unforgiving mountain country of New Zealand’s South Island, prospecting for gold and other minerals and making new tracks in unexplored areas. His astonishing feats of endurance and tenacity, coupled with his charming eccentricity, have captured the imagination of generations, and Denis Glover immortalised him in his famous poem, ‘Arawata Bill’. Recently, a Californian Country Rock act have added his story to their ballads. This new edition of Ian Dougherty’s landmark biography includes information about O’Leary’s life that has only recently come to light.

‘If you like the mystery of hidden gold and stories of a pioneering hero, set amidst the awe-inspiring grandeur of South Westland, you’ll like this book. The cost won’t damage your pocket too much and it’ll do your heart good.’ New Zealand Wilderness

About the Author

Ian Dougherty is a Dunedin-based author and journalist.

His previous books for Exisle are Heart of Gold, on contemporary Otago, and Southern Sting, on the champion netball team.

210 x 145 mm | paperback | 196 pages | includes photographs and images

Published February 2012

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