Messines Bookshop: Military History

04/09/2026

So many good things happening in Featherston!

Every day, thousands of motorists drive past a quiet stretch of gra...

19/08/2026

Back from a quick stock trip to Auckland with an extraordinary new find for the shelves! ✈️

We managed to secure a truly remarkable piece of military history for Messines: a copy of Francis K. Mason’s Battle over Britain featuring a hand-written personal note from 1970 by Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park himself.

As the New Zealand-born commander of the RAF’s No. 11 Group, Park’s tactical leadership was pivotal in defending British skies and defeating the Luftwaffe in 1940. Having his signature in a definitive text about the very battle he helped win feels surreal.

This absolute gem will be available for purchase soon, both in-store and on our website. DM us for early inquiries or keep an eye on the site! 📚

18/08/2026

We honour you.

04/08/2026

Some books aren’t just ink and paper - they are family heirlooms waiting to find their way home. 📖✨

When you run a military history bookshop, you get attached to rare finds - especially when it’s your last copy of a monumental record on the 28th (Māori) Battalion.

Today’s order is a special one. This precious piece of history is on its way to a family member whose own father is named within its pages.

It’s always a little sad to say goodbye to a book you know you may never hold again, but there is no better feeling than helping a piece of family heritage find its rightful home.

26/07/2026

Lots of new secondhand military theory books hitting the shelves.

Messines Bookshop: Military History

22/07/2026

📚 A HUGE thank you to everyone who has taken the time to leave us such lovely Google reviews! ❤️

As a family-run bookshop, your kind words mean so much to us. We’re incredibly grateful for your support and so happy to hear how much you enjoy discovering books with us.

Here are just a few of the wonderful things our customers have said recently:

💬 “What a fantastic little gem I found online! … Messines provided quick delivery updates and easy communications making it an easy decision to go back and get another book. Thank you team!

10/07/2026

🕰️ Open today till 4

📚 Another restock
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09/07/2026

09/07/2026

The sun is shining on Featherston (for once), the Matariki stars are rising, and the bookshop is looking bright! 🌟✨

We’ve just unboxed some new arrivals for the shelves, the winter sky is a beautiful clear blue (enjoy it while it lasts!), and we have a fresh loaf of the absolute best bread in town from BAKER, Featherston to keep us warm.

Mānawatia a Matariki, Happy Matariki from our family to yours. Pop in today to browse our latest stock and enjoy the long weekend!