James Herries Beattie

New Zealand Journalist and Historian

James Herries Beattie (1881–1972) was a preeminent New Zealand historian, ethnologist, and author. Known for his extensive preservation of southern Māori lore, traditions, and early pioneer history, his work remains foundational for understanding South Island whakapapa and oral histories.

His deep ties to Waimate span his adult life, community leadership, and historical contributions:

The Waimate Bookseller: In 1922, Beattie moved to Waimate to purchase and operate a local bookshop. He ran this business until 1939, which served as his anchor for decades of historical research and cycling excursions around the South Island.

Local Historian: While running his Waimate shop, he began interviewing Māori elders and early European settlers to record regional histories. He lived out his retirement in Waimate, eventually dedicating himself fully to writing and publishing 27 books.

The "Pedal-Powered Ethnographer": Known affectionately as "The Man With the Bike", Beattie frequently pedaled from Waimate across the South Island, visiting historical sites and gathering rich oral testimony before it was lost to time.

Waimate Museum Contribution: In 1969, Beattie donated his beloved 1901 Massey-Harris bicycle—which he had ridden across the country for over 60 years—to the Waimate Museum.