Indeterminate Sentence by Handyside, Allan

Softcover, previous owners name and address stamped inside, as New, Bright and crisp copy with minor handling signs. 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾" tall. First edition, 120 pages with cartoon illus, maps and some photos.

Publisher: Philip Garside Publishing , 2005 ISBN 9780958268219 / 0958268215

Wellington, New Zealand: Philip Garside Publishing, 2005. Allan Handyside spent nearly four years in Rangipo Prison, in the central North Island, from 1942-46, for refusing to join the armed forces in World War II. He had already been in Mt Crawford prison, Wi Tako Prison near Trentham and Strathmore Detention Camp near Taupo. During World War II, New Zealand politicians were much less tolerant of pacifist sentiment and conscientious objectors than those in Britain and other similar countries. As a consequence, around 800 NZ COs were detained, either in specially built remote camps or in prisons, for "the duration of the war." Their usual human rights were suspended and they received an indeterminate sentence. COs were only released well after the end of hostilities and after troops had arrived back home. Yet there was also humour and comradeship among the prisoners. Some were encouraged to plan and attempt escapes to help them stay sane. Authorities never discovered the secret mailrun between Hautu Detention Camp and Rangipo Prison that enabled those at Rangipo to get news of the outside world. This book helps us to understand how a minority group of pacifists maintained their integrity, and emerged from the wartime experience to return to their normal lives, where they continued to promote beliefs that are as relevant today.

All books are sent free by courier postage within New Zealand.

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