Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery is delighted to host the launch of Russell Garbutt’s new book, Vincent Pyke: Goldfields Gladiator on Sunday 14 December 2025, 6:30pm.
Vincent Pyke is a name familiar to many Central Otago families, yet his remarkable contributions to our region’s development are a story worth retelling. Pyke negotiated with the men who found the gold that sparked the great Dunstan gold rush, authored the legislation that governed New Zealand’s goldfields, and persistently championed the Otago Central Railway until it became a reality. He explored Haast Pass to survey a road and rail route to the West Coast and built the dam which formed Lake Onslow.
A politician of rare ability in both Victoria and New Zealand, Pyke was also a prolific and talented writer who brought humanity and good humour to all his endeavours. Above all, this is the story of a man who made things happen.
Author Russell Garbutt, a long-time Central Otago resident and local historian, will discuss his research and this fascinating character from our goldfields era. Books will be available for purchase and the author will be signing copies on the evening.
Light refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to manager@centralstories.com by Friday 12th December for catering purposes.
Free entry. All welcome.
