Ara Wairua - the Way of the Spirits - is a compilation of essays on the Hokianga and Far North regions in the North Island of New Zealand. This deeply-personal book is a chronology of responses to the mystery which is the Hokianga and the area up to Cape Reinga. Many of these essays have previously been published on Tony Bridge’s website. This book is a compilation of deep inner learnings acquired over the time Tony has spent among his tupuna (ancestors); it is also an invitation to readers to enter into a contemplative dialogue with the writer. When all is said and done, we are each of us both student and teacher.


Ara Wairua might be considered a kete for our individual and collective stories. Image and text are in dynamic conversation with each other and together provide insights and points of understanding from an artist who knows what it is to wrestle and who continues to hone and refine his powers of creative expression.


Tony brings 35 years of experience as a photographer, artist, writer and seeker to this, his second collection of essays. His previous book - Letters to my Friends - will appeal to photographers as well as to anyone exploring the interface between inner and outer experience. Readers can order a copy here.