Merchant Miner Mandarin

Explore the captivating biography of Choie Sew Hoy in 'Merchant, Miner, Mandarin,' a meticulously researched book that chronicles the influential life of one of New Zealand’s pioneering entrepreneurs. This stunning publication, bound in quality paperback, spans 288 pages and is richly illustrated, offering you a vivid glimpse into the 19th-century world of business and culture in New Zealand. From his modest beginning in Guangdong Province, China, Choie Sew Hoy became an integral figure in the Otago and Southland regions, transforming commerce through his visionary gold-dredging technology. His ambitious ventures into gold-mining not only revolutionized industries but also paved the way for future generations of entrepreneurs. Dive deep into his legacy—from establishing a successful store in Dunedin's Stafford Street to his prominent role in the local Chinese community, where he supported hospitals and social causes. With themes of resilience in the face of adversity, particularly against the racism of his time, this biography also reflects the intricate dynamics of race relations in late 19th-century New Zealand. Perfect for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of multicultural New Zealand, 'Merchant, Miner, Mandarin' stands as a testament to the extraordinary impact of one man’s journey across two worlds. Whether you are looking to understand New Zealand’s diverse heritage or seeking inspiration from a trailblazer, this book is an essential addition to your reading list.

Authors: Jenny Sew Hoy Agnew, Trevor Agnew Publisher: Canterbury University Press
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 210 x 265 mm
Pages: 288
Publication Date: 19-06-2020

In 1869, a businessman from China’s Guangdong Province first set foot on New Zealand soil at Port Chalmers. It was the beginning of an illustrious career that would change the shape of commerce and industry in Otago and Southland. ‘Merchant, Miner, Mandarin’ depicts the fascinating life of Choie Sew Hoy - from his early days in China before emigrating to Australia and then New Zealand, to his death in 1901 as one of Dunedin’s most prominent entrepreneurs. The store Choie Sew Hoy established in Dunedin’s Stafford Street was a huge success, while his revolutionary gold-dredging technology improved the fortunes of the gold-mining industry in Otago and Southland. He backed dredging, quartz crushing and hydraulic sluicing ventures in the goldfields of Ophir, Macetown, Skippers, Nokomai and the Shotover. Sharp as a razor, Sew Hoy was a visionary, able to spot opportunities no one else could, whether sending vast amounts of unwanted scrap metal from New Zealand back to China, or joining famous Taranaki businessman Chew Chong’s fungus export trade. Sew Hoy was also a local character, always elegantly dressed and with legendary success in horse racing. His self-assurance and charm gained him entry to the Chamber of Commerce, the Jockey Club, the Masons and even the Caledonian Society. A benefactor to many social causes, he supported hospitals and benevolent associations to help his fellow Chinese immigrants. When the success of the Chinese in New Zealand aroused hostility, he fought the prevalent racism and unfair government legislation of the day. A man of two worlds, Choie Sew Hoy was a success in both. Richly illustrated and deeply researched, ‘Merchant, Miner, Mandarin’ is both the compelling biography of one of the most distinguished figures of New Zealand business and an intriguing account of late 19th-century society, industry and race relations.