Author to speak on Cook’s map voyages

Acclaimed New Zealand author Tessa Duder will visit Napier on Wednesday, September 18 to talk about her new book, First Map: How James Cook Charted Aotearoa New Zealand ($49.99 RRP, on sale now at Wardini Books).

First Map tells the human story behind the creation of Cook’s famous chart, following the progress of his six-month circumnavigation of New Zealand and piecing the map together as the narrative on H.M.B. Endeavour unfolds.

Since it was published in 1773 in the Admiralty’s official account of the Endeavour voyage, James Cook’s chart of New Zealand has been regarded as one of the most extraordinary achievements in the history of cartography.

Tessa Duder has been long fascinated by James Cook’s iconic ‘New Zeland’ chart, and the challenges he overcame to create it. With some experience of sailing on a modern square-rigger, she set out to write a straightforward account of Lieutenant James Cook’s circumnavigation over the summer of 1769-70.

The focus was on how the famous chart was created during those six months, and at what cost. During the two years of preparation, Tessa says there has been increasing debate around James Cook’s place in New Zealand history.

“We have — not before time — stopped talking about his voyages of ‘discovery’ and Tupaia’s role during the circumnavigation is now being properly acknowledged,” she says. “To many, Cook remains one of the world’s greatest explorers, surveyors and seamen, and his charting of New Zealand’s three main islands reason enough to celebrate.

“Others, however, see Cook as the forerunner and cause of the many ills of 19th century Pacific colonialisation.” She aimed to keep the middle course through opposing viewpoints.

The book, designed to be enjoyed by the whole family, is published to coincide with the Tuia — Encounters 250 commemoration of James Cook’s 1769-70 journey around New Zealand, when Australia’s Endeavour replica and a flotilla of vessels including double-hulled waka and Spirit of New Zealand, follow the route he took.

■ Wardini Books and The Napier Library present Tessa Duder on Wednesday, September 18, 5.30pm, MTG Century Theatre, 65 Marine Parade, Napier. Free.