Discovering Kiwi Tales: Gerard Hindmarsh’s “Hard-Case Heroes”

Gerard Hindmarsh’s new book, Hard-Case Heroes, celebrates the unique stories of individuals from New Zealand’s Abel Tasman region. This collection features a mix of humorous and poignant tales about the area’s colourful characters, including the life of Newt Nalder, a retired fisherman who became known for his inventive approach to making pikelets.

Every Friday morning, Nalder would prepare pikelets to share with his colleagues at Stringer Engineering in Nelson. Despite losing his eyesight, he managed to continue this tradition. Hindmarsh recounts, “He developed a system that got around the problem – he would spoon the mixture into the frying pan, walk a couple of times up and down his hallway, return to the kitchen, flip the pikelets and do a couple more laps of the hall before removing perfectly cooked pikelets.”

Nalder’s life was not solely defined by his culinary skills. His reputation as a capable seaman led him to be cast in the first Hollywood film shot in New Zealand, Venus of the South Seas, featuring renowned American swimmer Annette Kellerman. The film was shot in 1924 along the stunning limestone coastline of Tarakohe.

Hindmarsh’s book is filled with captivating anecdotes that reflect the spirit of the region. An upcoming excerpt will include a tale involving “gelegnite” and a bach that was destroyed, showcasing the book’s mix of adventure and local lore. The collection also touches on darker themes, including incidents of murder and suicide, while celebrating Olympic medallists and local eccentrics.

The narrative is enriched with intriguing historical facts, such as the claim that “the world’s first hydraulic digger was almost certainly invented in Golden Bay.” Throughout the book, the tone remains lighthearted and adventurous, paying tribute to the pioneering spirit of the people who have shaped this sandy paradise.

One memorable character is Max White, the first dedicated ranger appointed to Totaranui. His work connected the Inland Track system and led to the construction of essential facilities in the area. Hindmarsh also recounts bizarre incidents, including one involving six cattle that wandered into a house, only to be trapped inside, causing significant damage before they perished.

With nearly 50 years of experience exploring the Abel Tasman region, Hindmarsh brings a wealth of knowledge and personal anecdotes to his storytelling. While the book could benefit from more diverse perspectives, particularly from women, it remains a heartfelt tribute to the region and its inhabitants.

Hard-Case Heroes by Gerard Hindmarsh is published by Swamp Press and retails for $40 at selected bookstores across the country. Readers can also order directly from the author. This engaging collection is highly recommended for those interested in the vibrant history and culture of New Zealand.