Celebrated Book Chronicles Lives Behind Manapōuri Hydro Project

The recently released book, *The Middle of Nowhere: Stories of Working in the Manapōuri Hydro Project*, has gained recognition as one of the best illustrated books of the year. Authored by Rosemary Baird, the publication offers a deep dive into the lives of those involved in the development of New Zealand’s Manapōuri hydro scheme. This initiative not only transformed the landscape but also shaped the personal narratives of the men and women who worked on the project.

In her introduction, Baird details the oral history interview with Frank Pawson, which served as the catalyst for this extensive project. The book features 18 archival interviews that capture the experiences of workers at Manapōuri, revealing both the triumphs and tragedies associated with the hydroelectric scheme. Baird’s journey toward publication spanned nearly a decade, marked by challenges that included self-doubt and initial rejections.

Baird received a significant boost in 2016 when she was awarded a history writing grant from the Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage. This support allowed her to transcribe interviews while managing family responsibilities, including raising children during a major home repair. Despite the challenges, her passion for the project remained unwavering, often sharing her enthusiasm with those around her during casual conversations.

The path to publication was fraught with obstacles. After completing the manuscript in late 2020, Baird faced a year of silence from her original publisher, leading to anxiety over the financial implications of the grant. The publisher ultimately rejected the work, citing concerns about its regional focus and academic rigor. Feeling the pressure of potential debt and personal disappointment, Baird drew on her resilience, recalling advice from a high school teacher about learning to cope with failure.

After several rounds of revision and additional rejections, Baird found a home for her manuscript with Canterbury University Press. The support from her editor, Anna Rogers, and the press’s team, including Catherine Montgomery and Katrina McCallum, proved invaluable in refining the book. The collaborative effort also highlighted the importance of thoughtful design and presentation, aspects that contribute significantly to a book’s impact.

The official launch at the Canterbury University Bookshop became a memorable event for Baird, as she witnessed attendees expressing interest in her work. A particularly poignant moment occurred during her talk at the Word Festival, where an audience member shared how the book provided new insights into his father’s life as a worker in the hydro project. Such reactions underscore the powerful connection between personal stories and collective history.

Baird’s expectations for sales were modest, given the niche nature of regional history books. Yet, to her surprise, the book exceeded initial sales projections, prompting a reprint by Canterbury University Press. This positive reception has further underscored the value of preserving local narratives and the hidden connections readers have with such histories.

Reflecting on the time it took to complete the project, Baird expressed regret that some interviewees passed away before the book’s release. Although she provided copies to their families, she wished that all could have experienced the joy of seeing their stories published. Despite these losses, she treasures the ongoing correspondence from former workers and their families, who share their gratitude for the preserved memories.

Baird’s exploration into the Manapōuri project was indirectly sparked by her PhD research on trans-Tasman migration. The interviews she conducted became a pathway to uncovering a rich tapestry of regional history, highlighting the significance of personal experiences in shaping collective memory.

As Steve Braunias notes in his postscript, the photographs included in the book are remarkable, illustrating the hard work and achievements associated with the construction of the Manapōuri hydroelectric scheme from 1963 to 1971. The project not only represents a milestone in New Zealand’s infrastructure but also serves as a testament to the human stories behind it.

*The Middle of Nowhere: Stories of Working in the Manapōuri Hydro Project* is available for purchase at bookstores nationwide and is poised to compete for recognition in various literary awards, including the ReadingRoom awards announced on December 19, 2025. With a price point of $59.99, the book is positioned as an ideal gift for anyone interested in New Zealand’s social history, particularly those connected to the country’s hydroelectric developments.