Some stories hum with their own rhythm, and some songs feel like stories. This New Zealand Music Month, we’ve paired 10 Kiwi books from the Blind Low Vision NZ Library with 10 Kiwi songs that strike the same chord. You can access all these books and more through the Blind Low Vision NZ Library. If you’re not yet a member, and would like to be, please call our friendly Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33. To listen to our chosen Kiwi hits, visit our free playlist on YouTube.
Once Were Warriors by Alan Duff and John Rowles’ If Only I Had Time.
Once Were Warriors explores themes of regret and the passage of time, mirroring those in Rowles’ song. Both highlight the burden of missed opportunities and the lasting impact of past decisions.
The Whale Rider by Witi Ihimaera and Six60’s Don’t Forget Your Roots.
The Whale Rider, where Kahu embraces her Māori roots and challenges gender expectations, pairs perfectly with Six60’s anthem of heritage, both emphasising the strength in cultural identity.
Came a Hot Friday by Ronald Hugh Morrieson and Hello Sailor’s Gutter Black.
Morrieson’s tale of small-town schemers and hustlers pairs perfectly with the gritty, rebellious energy of Gutter Black. Both capture the charm of Kiwi rogues, the underdog spirit, and the mischief of life on the fringes.
The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton and Fat Freddy’s Drop’s Pull the Catch.
The Luminaries weaves its mystery and historical drama with astrological influences and intricate storytelling, much like Fat Freddy’s Drop’s smooth, soulful, and dub-infused groove. Both unfold at their own pace, drawing you in with their slow-build magic and rewarding those who settle into the journey.
Life on Gorge River, New Zealand’s Remotest Family by Robert Long and Dave Dobbyn’s Slice of Heaven.
Telling the story of a family’s off-grid life in the remote wilderness, Life on Gorge River embraces self-reliance, and a deep connection to nature, while Slice of Heaven captures the serenity and contentment found in solitude.
Blue Smoke, The Lost Dawn of New Zealand Popular Music 1918–1964 by Chris Bourke and Pixie Williams’ Blue Smoke.
Capturing nostalgia, wartime sorrow, and cultural identity, Chris Bourke’s book and Pixie Williams’ song of the same name highlight the origins of New Zealand’s music industry and early musical landscape.
The New Zealand Wars, Ngā Pakanga o Aotearoa by Vincent O’Malley, and Tom Sharplin and Gerry Merito’s Hoki Mai/Pa Mai.
O’Malley’s book examines the enduring effects of the New Zealand wars on Māori and Aotearoa, while Hoki Mai/Pa Mai captures the emotional toll on soldiers returning from World War 2.
The Dark Is Light Enough, Ralph Hotere by Vincent O’Sullivan and Shona Laing’s 1905.
The Dark Is Light Enough and 1905 both dive into New Zealand’s identity and history in powerful ways. Hotere’s art challenges political issues head-on, while Laing’s song weaves nostalgia with deep reflection.
Dead People I Have Known by Shayne Carter and Dragon’s April Sun in Cuba.
Exploring reflection and life’s complexities, Carter’s memoir captures the emotions of growing up and relationships, while April Sun in Cuba expresses longing and a desire for freedom.
The 10pm Question by Kate de Goldi and The Exponents’ Why Does Love Do This to Me?
Both The 10pm Question and Why Does Love Do This to Me? explore the emotional struggles of growing up and self-discovery, with the novel focusing on Frank’s anxieties and family dynamics, and the song capturing the confusion and heartache of love.
How to Access the Library
These classic books, as well as many others, are available through the Blind Low Vision NZ Library. To become a member, you can sign up by calling our friendly Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33 or emailing the Library at library@blindlowvision.org.nz. If you’re already a member, you can browse these and other Kiwi greats in the Library catalogue.
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