Book excerpt: This book provides a comprehensive study of the economic history of New Zealand. It is for use as a textbook, and will be of interest to economic historians for its comprehensive coverage of the subject. It provides a clear and readable account that will be accessible to those without a background in economics. The book covers the period since European settlement, with particular emphasis on the postwar economy. It deals with the economic problems encountered in establishing a trading economy in New Zealand and in maintaining it and adapting it to the evolving international economy. It looks closely at the development and performance of different sectors of the economy, the influence of the government and the response to international economic conditions. It also considers the way in which New Zealand society has been shaped by the problems encountered and by the solutions to those problems.