Who is Don Stafford?

Author Don Stafford lived in Rotorua almost all of his life. He recalls, that as a young boy, he would sit by the fire in his father’s shop and listen to the stories of the elderly people who came to shop there. From Te Arawa legends of old to more recent, amusing incidents, Don never forgot those stories or the people who told them. With his well-known warmth and aroha for the people and the land, he collected and retold some of the best of these in several publications as well as in a speaking capacity to audiences from near and far. Don was always in strong demand not only for his extensive knowledge of Rotorua history and whakapapa but also because of his delightful sense of humour, wit and romanticism which he weaved through the stories, bringing alive the characters and places of long ago.

Don Stafford produced comprehensive, historical books on Te Arawa people and the Rotorua region; his books are constantly referred to by researchers, students and other interested parties. In addition, he generously donated his research notes to the people of Rotorua and these are readily (and often) accessed in our library.

The Rotorua Public Library is honoured to have been permitted the use of Don Stafford’s name for the room where our main research collection of Māori and Rotorua books is housed. Don was a frequent visitor to the library right until his passing in April, 2010.  He will be sadly missed by many.