
About the event
All you music lovers (and Aotearoa history buffs), join us for a great lunchtime author event!
Author, and musician Gareth Shute will be spending time in-store discussing his most recent book Songs from the Shaky Isles. There'll be plenty of muso anecdotes and historical tid-bits. Pull up a chair and settle in for an hour of excellent story-telling.
Gareth has published a number of non-fiction books about the arts in New Zealand, particularly local music. He has toured the UK, Europe, US, and Australia as a member of bands such as the Brunettes and the Ruby Suns, hands-on experience which shapes the scope of his writing. Shute’s books focus on the history of New Zealand popular music.
Click through to read a fab interview from Under the Radar.
About the book:
Songs from the Shaky Isles provides a vivid account of how popular music arose in our far-flung island nation. From early songs that could only be heard in person through to modern hits which spread digitally to all ends of the earth. It's a fast-paced, big picture account that shows how wider society influenced, and was itself impacted by, the country's musical culture. There's also plenty of room for outrageous anecdotes and insightful analysis. It's a treat for music fans and history buffs alike.
- - -
Author photo: Mieko Edwards
In-store, Wednesday 22nd July, 12:30pm
Unity Books Wellington, 57 Willis St.
All welcome, chairs available.
Other News & Events

IIML Writers on Mondays: Kate Camp, Noelle McCarthy in convo with Kate Duignan
17 Aug 2026 - 12:15pm-1:15pmMonday 17th August, 12:15-1:15pm, Te Papa Tongarewa

2026 Verb Readers & Writers Programme Launch
13 Aug 2026 - 6pm6pm, Thursday 13th August, Unity Books Wellington, 57 Willis Street, Te Aro.

Book Launch: Designing with Nature by Mick Abbott
11 Aug 2026 - 6pm6pm, Tuesday 11th August, Unity Books Wellington, 57 Willis Street, Te Aro All welcome, seats available!