Explore the captivating life of Slippery Jim, a remarkable and dynamic figure in New Zealand's political history. Authored by R.J. Bruce and R.J. Bunce, this biography provides a comprehensive look at James Macandrew, who arrived in Dunedin from Scotland in 1851. A man of notable achievements and contradictions, Macandrew's commitment to public service and his fervent ambition led him to play pivotal roles in transforming the Otago region.

With dimensions of 170 x 240 mm and 384 pages in a well-crafted paperback bind, this book delves into Macandrew's tumultuous journey as an influential politician and businessman. Follow his rise through the Otago Provincial Council, where he held almost every elected position, culminating in his tenure as the Superintendent of Otago and a 29-year term in the New Zealand Parliament.

Slippery Jim paints a vivid picture of a Victorian settler dedicated to his family, community, and faith. Discover the institutions that flourished under his leadership, including the University of Otago and the Otago Polytechnic School of Art. Yet, the biography does not shy away from detailing his controversial nature and tumultuous political journey that left a lasting impact on the region. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual reader, this biography offers an enlightening and balanced exploration of a remarkable figure in New Zealand's heritage.

We are happy to combine shipping for your convenience. Smartfox is a proud NZ-owned business based in Auckland. This book is stocked in NZ, ensuring you avoid unexpected import charges, customs duty, or tax.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 170 x 240 mm
Pages: 384
Bind: paperback
Authors: R.J. Bruce, R.J. Bunce Publisher: Otago University Press


This is a biography of one of New Zealand’s most colourful and persuasive politicians. When James Macandrew arrived in Dunedin from Scotland in 1851, other settlers were impressed by his energy and enthusiasm for new initiatives. With his finger in a lot of commercial pies, he set about making himself a handsome income which he eventually lost, declaring himself bankrupt and ending up in a debtors’ prison for a time. Politics became another enterprise at which he threw himself with a passion. Macandrew was a member of Otago Provincial Council for 10 years, during which time he held almost all the elected positions in that body. He was superintendent of Otago for a further decade, and at the same time he was a member of parliament for 29 years. This is the warts-and-all story of a Victorian settler who was a devoted family man, a staunch Presbyterian and a consummate politician. It examines the numerous local institutions that benefited from Macandrew’s touch – the University of Otago, the Art School (now Otago Polytechnic School of Art), the Normal School (later the College of Education) – along with his contributions to the building of roads, railways, wharves, harbours, schools and churches. Macandrew made plenty of enemies along the way, and has been severely judged by history. This re-examination of his life and political work reveals a man who both inspired and infuriated the citizens of Otago, and New Zealand, for almost four decades.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.