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Tupaia: The remarkable story of Captain Cook's Polynesian navigator by Joan Druett

It will surprise many that not more has been written about Tupaia and his part in Captain Cook's history. In this book, Joan Druett explores the role and life of Captain Cook's Polynesian navigator, Tupaia.

Tupaia was more than just a navigator; he was a diplomat, artist, translator and leader of the Polynesian Island of Raitea. He was welcomed aboard the Endeavour as an additional member of the crew at Banks' insistence because of his expertise in geography, navigation and spiritual matters. For his part, Tupaia was also eager to explore new places just like his ancestors had done.

His skills soon proved invaluable especially when the ship arrived in New Zealand and it was found that Tupaia had a similar culture and language to the Maori, enabling free dialogue to take place. His fame was so great in this country that news of him reached some places before he did.

Unfortunately Tupaia died in Batavia while the ship was docked for repairs, so he never made it to England. According to this book, he died from complications of scurvy, while some other sources claim he died simply of dysentery.

This book also gives a good account of Cook's voyage and provides insight into the meetings and dialogue of different cultures, often using written records and accounts of the voyage. It is an interesting and informative read.

RRP $50.00
Published by Random House New Zealand
 

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