Stories of our Nation
The Great Endeavour
1768
The Royal Society wanted to advance their knowledge of navigation, the Navy wanted to know if there was a Great Southern Continent, and the sailors were ready to sail into unknown waters.
The Sharp eyes of a child
1769
The weary crew of the Endeavour had been at sea for months, their water barrels were nearly empty and all eyes were gazing to the horizons, looking for land.
The Casual Kidnapping
1769
The new Governor of Norfolk Island had flax, prisoners and slaves, but no one knew how to make rope and fabric the way the New Zealanders could - so he sent an official request to the Admiralty for 'a couple of Maori'.
The First Frybread
1813
Chief Ruatara had his eye on the powers of these Europeans that were sailing into the Bay of Island - the tools, the weapons and the food, especially bread. If he could bring bread to his people they would never go hungry.
The loss of the HMS Orpheus
1863
The Captain of the HMS Orpheus was bringing supplies to the British military, and was confident in the harbour map of the Manukau Harbour, even when the signalman on shore sent him desperate warnings to change course.
The White Camellia - votes for women
1893
It was the educated women of the colony who led the campaign - why could illiterate labourers have the right to choose their Representatives, but no woman could have a say? Would society really collapse if they could vote?
