This is a study of the Arts and Crafts movement in New Zealand and in particular of the role and contribution of women. The work uncovers a number of gifted artistic talents and a wide range of beautiful and unusual works mostly still in private hands. It explores drawing, textile design, bookbinding, metalwork, jewellery, wood carving and embroidery. The work also describes the growth of art education in New Zealand, drawing attention to the influential figures and showing how the artistic talents of women were encouraged and developed.