Developments in the 'Big One'

In New Zealand historiography little attention has been paid to the growth of urban centres. Developments in the -Big One- fills a small part of this gap. Auckland, more so than other cities in New Zealand, has grown by importing migrants and not solely by natural increments. The size, diversity and migration history of Auckland-s population are key factors contributing towards a perceived distance between Auckland and the rest of New Zealand. This book explores three facets of post World War II Auckland. Firstly it examines the allure of Auckland as the -Big One- to migrants in the postwar period. Secondly, a celebration of Auckland-s growth explores how Aucklanders felt about living in the city. Thirdly, the three initiatives of regional governance, slum clearance and food hygiene illustrate concerns for Auckland in its ostensible period of golden weather. Developments in the -Big One- argues that a better understanding of the growth and history of Auckland can open up new frameworks of historical analysis both inside and outside of the New Zealand model.

Mara Bebich has a BA & MA Hons in history from the University of Auckland. This work is the product of her thesis. She previously co-authored a book on the history of a WWII veterans club with Gabrielle Fortune entitled Citizenship & Remembrance. Mara currently works in local government and maintains an ongoing interest in postwar history