jQuery(document).on('gform_post_render', function(){ /* apply only to a textarea with a class of gf_readonly */ jQuery(".gf_readonly input").attr("readonly","readonly"); }); lang="en-NZ"> COMP CLOSED | Book Giveaway | Once a Forest Ranger - GrownUps New Zealand
GrownUps New Zealand

COMP CLOSED | Book Giveaway | Once a Forest Ranger

We’re excited to be giving away two copies of Once a Forest Ranger by Chris Nelson to our GrownUps members!

To be in the draw, simply make sure you’re a GrownUps member, signed up to our newsletter, and fill in your details at the bottom of the page.

About Once a Forest Ranger

A Riveting Memoir of One Man’s Journey Through Life’s Wilderness

Chris Nelson, a lifelong forestry professional and outdoor enthusiast, is releasing his captivating memoir, Once a Forest Ranger, offering readers a vivid glimpse into the evolving landscape of New Zealand forestry and the extraordinary life behind the profession. Set against the stunning backdrop of the North Island, the book chronicles decades of Nelson’s adventures, challenges, and personal triumphs.

Originally dreaming of becoming a farmer in the 1960s, Chris’s path took him deep into the forests instead, where he forged a career filled with excitement and meaningful work. His memoir reflects the sweeping changes in forestry management influenced by political shifts and changing views on nature conservation. Beyond the professional narrative, Once a Forest Ranger is rich with stories of hunting escapades, bush mishaps, and encounters with quirky characters, all told with humour and heartfelt insight.

‘It has been more than ten years since I retired from a full-time career in forestry,’ Nelson says. Forestry had been good to me, all 47 years of it. It was a way of life rather than a job.’

‘I worked with many genuine and down-to-earth people, some of whom became great friends. I had the good fortune to experience a variety of roles and always had the satisfaction of being part of managing a sustainable, natural resource. This included the development of large areas of bush and scrub-covered land into productive commercial forests and, during the latter half of my career, planning and preparing mature forests for harvest production.’

‘This book is not just about trees and forests It’s about resilience, family, and finding adventure in life’s toughest moments.’ Chris’s tale also reveals a childhood marked by hardship and transience, attending over twelve schools before turning twelve, and a deep bond with his mother who raised him and his sisters against the odds. From youthful travels abroad to overcoming health and family struggles, his journey will resonate with readers who appreciate both the outdoors and the human spirit.

Once a Forest Ranger invites all outdoor lovers, young and old, and anyone intrigued by a life of perseverance and discovery to explore a uniquely New Zealand story. The memoir celebrates a man who turned challenges into opportunities and a passion for nature into a lifelong pursuit.

Once a Forest Ranger is out in bookstores 6 October. Discover a story of adventure, heart, and the enduring spirit of New Zealand’s forests.

About Chris Nelson

Chris Nelson’s career in forestry spans over fifty years, beginning in the remote Hawkes Bay forests and concluding in the East Coast’s wild woodlands. Inspired by stories from his parents’ generation, shaped by global events like the Great Depression and World War II, Chris’s memoir is a tribute to his family, his profession, and the natural world he loves.

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Terms and conditions

    1. You must be a GrownUps member and subscribed to our newsletter to be eligible to enter.

    2. The competition closes on 15th October 2025. Winners will be notified via email by 6th October 2025.

    3. It is your responsibility to provide a correct New Zealand postal address for prize delivery. GrownUps is not responsible for prizes sent to incorrect addresses.

    4. Winners will be drawn at random by the GrownUps administration team.

    5. GrownUps employees and their immediate families are not eligible to enter.

    6. By entering, you agree to GrownUps using your name on social media as a winner of the competition.

    7. One entry per household.

    8. The prize is non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash or other items.

    9. You must reside in New Zealand, as the prize can only be delivered within New Zealand.

    10. You must be over 50 years of age to enter. Please ensure your membership details are up to date in your dashboard.