James Cook and Tupaia - What did they learn?James Cook and Tupaia - What did they learn? 

In Tahiti, Banks met Tupaia, a Tahitian high priest with exceptional skills in navigation, language and art. He taught Banks about the plants and animals of the island and the customs of the Tahitian people. Tupaia even drew detailed maps of the Pacific islands that he knew, which were incredibly helpful to the crew of the Endeavour.

Interpretation of Tupaia’s map 

When it was time for the Endeavour to continue its journey, Tupaia joined them. He helped guide the ship to new islands, using his knowledge of the stars and the sea. Tupaia's skills and knowledge were incredibly valuable, and he became an important member of the crew. 

James Cook’s voyage aboard HMB Endeavour produced one of the most significant European records of Aotearoa’s (New Zealand’s) coastline, geography, people, plants and animals. Cook and his crew became the first Europeans to circumnavigate the country, confirming that it was made up of two main islands. The voyage gave Europeans their first substantial accounts of Māori culture and ways of life. All of this information shaped Britain’s understanding of the region.  

[icon] Look at the map of Aotearoa (New Zealand) drawn by James Cook to answer the following questions:

ANMM Object number 00004423

Australian National Maritime Museum Collection

Until Cook’s voyage, the east coast of Australia was unknown to Europeans.

[icon] Compare the map of Australia before and after James Cook’s Endeavour voyage and answer the following questions: