S1-E14: New Zealand: Warlike Tendencies

Podcast 02 April 2025

During their extended stay in Dusky Bay, Captain Cook’s crew encountered moments of peace, awe — and subtle tension. This episode recounts a remarkable chain of events, from unexpected ceremonies to cautious cultural exchanges.

A Māori man and a young girl visit the ship for the first time. They admire cats and goats — animals they have never seen before. As a token of friendship, the girl anoints expedition artist William Hodges with fragrant oil, while the man performs a solemn ritual on the ship’s hull with a green branch and a chant. When given a musket, the old man insists on firing it, despite the girl’s clear fear — a moment Georg Forster sees as symbolic of the people’s proud and warlike character.

**A Māori elder fires a musket for the first time — a powerful moment of curiosity, courage, and cultural encounter – Click on the image to listen to this episode on YouTube.**

While some members of the crew explore a remote sea arm and nearly get ambushed, others find rare ducks, shimmering waterfalls, and secluded Māori families waving white feathers — universal signs of peace. But when the Māori guests vanish and a troubling gesture suggests they might be preparing for war, Georg begins to question whether the tools they gifted could be used for peace — or for bloodshed.

This episode captures the fragile balance between friendship and fear in an uncharted land.