Author in critical condition
By Yvonne Tahana reporting in NZ Herald, 7 December, 2009

Dame Judith has suffered serious head injuries. Photo / Dean Purcell

Historian Dame Judith Binney was in a critical but stable condition in intensive care at Auckland City Hospital last night after being struck by a truck on Friday evening.
She has serious head injuries after the accident which happened while she was crossing Princes St in Auckland city. The truck stopped at the scene.

The accident comes at a time when Dame Judith should be celebrating the publication of a significant piece of research around Tuhoe history. She launched her latest book, Encircled Lands: Te Urewera, 1820-1921, a week ago in Ruatoki at Waikirikiri Marae.
An Auckland University emeritus professor of history, Dame Judith has devoted decades to telling the iwi's stories and she is someone whom the tribe trusts.
It was an occasion that the 69-year-old clearly enjoyed as locals and academics patiently waited for the author to sign copies of the book.

Her contribution to the tribe and the place Dame Judith holds in their hearts were recognised at the book launch when iwi leader Pou Temara gave her a Maori name, Tomairangi o Te Aroha, which means the heavenly dews of love.
Read the full report at NZHerald online.

Book details:

Encircled Lands
Te Urewera, 1820-1921
Judith Binney
Bridget Williams Books - NZ$79.99