Throughout New Zealand there are many legendary places, people, and things. Usually we get to hear about just one of those items - a nice mountain range somewhere in the deep south, perhaps an ex sport star writes a biography, or there is a documentary about an old invention.
Very rarely do you get to read about three legends in one book, but Duncan Munro has been able to do this with his book A Farmer's Affair - The Legend of the Land Rover Icon.
Duncan Munro lives in a legendary place, has spent a lifetime driving the legendary Land Rover, and although he won't admit it - he's bit of a local legend himself.
A Farmer's Affair traces the many Land Rovers that have graced the Munro family farm - Pukerau - in the rural east of Auckland close to Kawakawa Bay. The farm itself could fill a book with its stunning 360 degree views of Auckland and surrounds, plus as far north as the Hen & Chickens and as far south as... well even further.
If Pukerau, or perhaps it is just as easily called 'Duncan's Place', is the setting for Duncan's lifetime of experiences, then the vehicle for this journey is definitely the Land Rover.
From the very first Land Rover on the farm - a series 2a in which got his driver's licence in as a bright eyed and bushy tailed 15 year old - Duncan was hooked and since the early 1960's he hasn't been without one.
Duncan's chatty style of writing endears you to him and his farm and clearly shows the passion he has for the world famous off road vehicle. It also allows you to feel as if you are sitting in the passenger seat next to him during the very event he is describing - many of which are particularly interesting, along with a bunch of knee slapping good yarns too.
A Farmer's Affair allows you to journey through Duncan's colourful farming life at Pukerau, 65 plus years - with the only time he left being a three year tour of service with the New Zealand.
Duncan not only generously shares his life in text, but many historical photos from his life are placed throughout the book to help the reader visualise his experiences - including his time in active overseas service.
One particular heart warming aspect of the book is the plethora of cartoons supplied by David Henshaw that reveal a certain cheekiness as well help showcase Duncan's sense of humour.
Using such a legendary vehicle, the Land Rover, to tell one's life story creates a unique book that will appeal to farmers, Land Rover enthusiasts, and generally any New Zealander who enjoys a touch of nostalgia - along with a jolly good yarn too! The book is perfect for anyone with a penchant for New Zealand's original SUV even before SUV's were invented, the legendary Land Rover.
A Farmer's Affair by Duncan Munro is now only available directly from www.pukerau.co.nz and is in strictly limited supply, so be quick if you wish to secure yourself a copy.
Follow the history of Land Rover through the many experiences of a local farmer.