Wow! After what seems like a very long time since I started this project, my new book, Surf Dreams, hits the shelves at all good bookstores today.
It's an insight into the world and surf culture of New Zealand's most iconic surf towns and represents one of those assignments that is something of a dream for me. For this one I worked once again with the incredible team at Penguin Random House New Zealand. They're so passionate about the book experience and believe the storytelling leads the way, which makes my life so much easier.
I'm very proud of what I have achieved with Surf Dreams. It is nothing like what I imagined it would be when I first discussed the project with my publisher, Margaret. The project took on a life of its own. The surf towns started to tell their own tales in such detail that the various cultures emerged from the interviews and experiences. Each surf town contributes to the overall story of what it is to be a surfer in New Zealand.
Roger Hall, one of New Zealand's leading shapers, wrote the foreword – an insightful piece that opens the book perfectly. We enjoyed watching as Roger and his kelpie, Taz, shared a few waves at Waipu one morning. They're a classic duo.
In the end we have something very special here in Aotearoa. Something incredible that exists within the people, the whenua (land) and the laidback Kiwi charm that fills our lineups with characters rich in life experience and zest.
Grab a copy and be sure to let us know your thoughts on it all. You can still order a signed one from us here.
This past week was spent mostly in Northland (for another book project). Here's a few images from my travels (loving the new Box of Light HQ in Northland).
See you at the beach ... Derek
PS This coming Friday night the Regent Theatre features a very impressive talent with singer, songwriter, playwright, pianist, author, director, and blogger Amanda Palmer. You may know her from the punk duo The Dresden Dolls? Her solo career has proven equally brave and boundless. Her Theatre Is Evil made a top 10 debut on the Billboard 200 in 2012 and remains the top-funded original music project on Kickstarter. In 2013 she presented “The Art of Asking” at the annual TED conference, which has been viewed over 20 million times worldwide. Palmer expanded her philosophy into the New York Times best-selling memoir, The Art of Asking: How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Let People Help. Since 2015 Palmer has used the patronage platform Patreon to fund her artwork with over 15,000 patrons supporting her creations each month. She's a star. Don't miss her. Tickets right here.
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