HOLM SHIPS AND SEAMEN

Press, Volume CXV, Issue 34031, 20 December 1975, Page 10

HOLM SHIPS AND SEAMEN

Fair Winds and Rough Seas. By Allan Kirk. A. H. and A. W. Reed. 260 pp. N.Z. price $6.95.

The part played by the Holm family in the New Zealand Shippping industry is full and ably described in this history of the Holm Shipping Company. Allan Kirk, the author, was well known in New Zealand as a writer on shipping topics. He died while his manuscript was awaiting revision and publication.

The book is essentially the story of the Holm enterprises and was commissioned by Captain J. F. Holm a grandson of Ferdinand Holm, founder of the company and a rugged individualist, as were his descendants. The first part of the book, dealing with the early struggles of the

company to become established, and describing the ships, their acquisition and some of the adventures which befell them, makes interesting reading. Of less general appeal will be the section dealing with some of the men and women who have served the company ashore and afloat. Brief biographies detail the postions held in the company, and the constant use of such adjectives as loyal, efficient, enthusiastic, is inclined to be irritating. In shipping circles these details will no doubt be read with interest. As a whole, the book will earn a place as a valuable addition to the literature of New Zealand shipping.