Tableland : the history behind Mount Arthur, Kahurangi National Park / Ray Salisbury.

Includes bibliographical references.

Foreword / Nick Smith -- Preface -- Discovery: in search of -- Mining: golden gullies -- Grazing: beef and mutton -- Recreation: tramping and camping -- Chaffeys: alone together -- Cobb Dam: hydro power -- Forestry: huts and tracks -- Hunting: dead or alive -- Search and Rescue: lost and found -- Conservation: seeking sanctuaries -- Renovation: historic huts -- Caving: final frontier.

The story of the Tableland, the area behind Mt Arthur on the eastern side of Kahurangi National Park. Generations of Nelsonians have lived in sight of the Arthur Range on the western border of the Nelson district. But few of them know the stories that were played out on the Tableland, the high tussock plateau of Mt Arthur, in the adjacent Cobb Valley or in the ranges and valleys beyond. Explored by surveyors, farmed by the early pioneers, prospected by goldminers, loved by trampers, hunters and cavers, and cared for by Forest Service rangers, DOC rangers and conservationists, this is the story of a much-loved part of New Zealand's backcountry. The chapters in 'Tableland' reflect its diverse land usage, from grazing and gold mining, asbestos mining to hydroelectric generation, but as well, tell the history of the characters who have worked, lived and played here. Beautifully illustrated with the author's photography, as well as a wide range of historic material and photos, this will be a book treasured by those with a connection to this area.