Madi Williams

Dr Madi Williams’ non-fiction titles are counter narratives in many ways. With her first book Polynesia 900–1600: An Overview of the History of Aotearoa, Rēkohu and Rapa Nui and Ngāti Kuia: He Pūtake, Hei Pakiaka Ora just published by Auckland University Press, she has established herself as one of New Zealand’s most original and exciting historians.

‘Williams brings fresh eyes and thinking to assiduously researched subjects that come alive under the light she shines on them. It’s a light that benefits us all,’ says NVA judge, Guy Somerset.