The Canoes of Kupe is a comprehensive account of Martinborough and its personalities from the beginnings of settlement by Maori through to the 21st century. The Martinborough district, at the southern end of New Zealand's North Island, has had a colourful history - some similar to other parts of the country and some distinctively different. From the large sheep runs of the 19th century to today's boutique wineries, it is a story enhanced by Roberta McIntyre's comprehensive research in private and public archives and her oral history interviews. The author also skilfully places the district's history within the context of national and international events that had repercussions for life in the town and through its hinterland.