Nation Dates
A series of books of significant events in Aotearoa New Zealand
There are now three books in the Nation Dates series.
The McGuinness Institute has committed to updating all books over time in order to provide the general public with a record of our past in an easy-to-access and well referenced format.
First published in 2023
Nation Dates: Timelines of significant events that have shaped the history of Aotearoa New Zealand starts in 1769 and the fifth edition includes 857 entries.
First published in 2024
COVID-19 Nation Dates: A New Zealand timeline of significant events during the COVID-19 pandemic starts in 2020 and the second edition includes 706 entries.
First published in 2026
Nation Voices: Significant speeches by premiers and prime ministers that shaped
New Zealand includes all 42 leaders of New Zealand, from 1856 to 2025.
Upcoming McGuinness Institute Publications
In June 2026, we will publish three books, presented as a series (see placeholder covers below). Although each explores a distinct theme in our nation’s past, they are united by their shared focus on New Zealand history.
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Nation Dates Timelines of significant events that have shaped the history of Aotearoa New Zealand (sixth edition):
Focuses on significant events that shaped Aotearoa New Zealand from 1769.
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COVID-19 Nation Dates: A New Zealand timeline of significant events during the COVID-19 pandemic (third edition):
Chronicles the history of COVID-19 in New Zealand with a view to showcasing lessons for future pandemics.
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Nation Voices: New Zealand’s Premiers and Prime Ministers in Their Own Words (first edition):
Explores leadership under pressure as premiers and prime ministers face the challenges and embrace the opportunities of their time in office.
