" 'There in Waihi, with its toil and its treasure' Men's lives are squandered while earning a crust" This song was sung by residents of the Coromandel goldmining settlement of Waihi ("Waiheathens") in the first years of the 20th century. It is one of several authentic impressions of the town compiled in this book, including some that are rare or previously unpublished. Waiheathens has been produced to coincide with the centenary of the 1912 miner's strike which turned Waihi into a battleground and resulted in the violent death of one striker. The book includes colour reproductions of the exhibition of paintings titled "Gold Strike", by Wellington artist Bob Kerr, which was also inspired by the Waihi strike. Waiheathens gives voice to a community and historical events which are unique in New Zealand, yet remain intensely significant to the entire country."--Back cover.