Niue and the Great War

Discover the remarkable story of Niue's participation in the Great War with 'Niue and the Great War' by Margaret Pointer. This compelling paperback edition, published by the Otago University Press, delves into a unique and often overlooked chapter of World War I history. In 1915, 160 brave Niuean men embarked on an extraordinary journey, joining the New Zealand Expeditionary Force as part of the Maori Reinforcements. Most of these men had never left their island home, had little English proficiency, and were wholly unprepared for the challenges ahead, including European diseases. Tragically, within three months, over 80% found themselves hospitalized, leading army officials to withdraw them from service. Margaret Pointer’s extensive research sheds light on the lost narratives of these soldiers, showcasing their sacrifices and contributions. This enriched edition includes new photographs and context that highlights the broader Pacific experience during the war and honors the role of colonial troops. Perfect for history enthusiasts and those interested in New Zealand and Pacific studies, 'Niue and the Great War' is an essential addition to any collection focused on World War I. Explore the emotional depth of this narrative that continues to touch hearts and educate readers about the intertwined stories of colonial soldiers in the Allied efforts.

Author: Margaret Pointer Publisher: Otago University Press
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 156 x 220 x 20 mm
Pages: 216
Publication Date: 10-07-2018

The story of tiny Niue’s involvement in the Great War has captivated people since an account was first published by Margaret Pointer in 2000. In 1915, 160 Niuean men joined the New Zealand Expeditionary Force as part of the Maori Reinforcements and set sail to Auckland and then Egypt and France. Most had never left the island before, or worn shoes before. Most spoke no English. Most significantly, they had no immunity to European disease. Within three months of leaving New Zealand, over 80 per cent of them had been hospitalised and the army authorities withdrew them. Margaret Pointer became involved in research to trace the lost story of Niue’s involvement in World War I while living on the island in the 1990s. The resulting book, Tagi Tote e Loto Haaku: My Heart is Crying a Little, was published in 2000. Her research has continued since, and Niue and the Great War contains much new material together with new photographs. This moving story has now been set in a wider Pacific context and also considers the contribution made by colonial troops, especially ‘coloured’ ones, to the Allied effort.