Route 52: A Big Lump Of Country Unknown

by Simon Burt

Wairarapa writer Simon Burt, prompted by curiosity, hooked up his caravan, chucked Meg the foxie in the back seat, and set off to find what makes Route 52, the torturous back road between Masterton and Waipukurau, tick. The hula parties in 'Coconut Grove' ; Akitio, where James K. Baxter wrote a cautionary poem; folk hero fugitive George Wilder's hideout and protectors in Herbertville; and the salesman and the musician who bonded over wily trout in the Mākuri River.

he shared beers, cuppas and scones with the people of these places. People informed by their obstacles, and the isolation they face - and largely prefer, This book is what he found.

Paperback

First published January 1, 2025

Reviews

[Alan Doak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant book, about an area that I know well. Simon captures the sense of the place so well. Looking forward to more journeys along routes unknown.