Settlers came to Aotearoa New Zealand for many reasons – a better life, adventure or displacement. Perhaps they were inspired by the book Robinson Crusoe – it was on the bestseller list in those days – or maybe they saw panoramas of "Auckland" displayed in polluted London.
For many, moving to a Pacific island sounded an exciting proposition. It may not have been quite what they imagined! In the early days, there was not much going on, and people able to make their own fun were at a distinct advantage. Play and games brought settlers together across cultures and generations.
Cards, picnics, and boat races were only the start of it. Take a walk with local author Alex Bonham through central Auckland and find out what they got up to.
