This is Us is a collection of over 200 brief interviews with New Zealanders, spanning the length and breadth of the country; from Cape Reinga to Stewart Island. It was written in response to the Christchurch terrorist attack but is not about it; it is instead a representation of the New Zealand people in their own words. A celebration of the diverse, open, and inclusive communities that exist across New Zealand, This is Us inspires hope by showing the kindness and spirit of everyday people.
Each interview provides a snapshot of the subject’s life, accompanied by a photographic portrait. The joy interviewees felt in telling their stories shines from the page. Each of the interviewees has a unique story to tell, and to have them collected in one place creates an engaging and insightful reading experience that will delight anyone interested in finding out more about Kiwi society and culture.
Carter spoke with characters from a variety of professions, age groups and cultural backgrounds. From a New Zealander with a long line of Kiwi ancestors, to a person with a Māori name but Italian and Brazilian parents, this collection reflects the ethnic diversity and cultural riches of New Zealand. This is Us is a tribute to the Kiwi spirit.
Pete Carter is a writer and photographer. He is the author of two previous books of poetry, and This is Us, a book which tells the stories of more than 200 New Zealanders in words and portraits. Pete has had articles published in magazines and poetry in anthologies. As a photographer he has had work included in group exhibitions in New Zealand and overseas, two solo exhibitions, and has sold his work to corporate clients. In 2019 Pete had a three months writing residency in rural France where he finished This Is Us and wrote half a novel. Pete lives with his wife and two dogs in Wellington, New Zealand. They have two grown up children, one who lives in Bristol and the other in Sydney. One of his dogs is the muse for Our Dog Benji; the other hopes to star in Pete’s next book.
