07/12/2024
The forgotten story of Tupaia, the Polynesian navigator who sailed with James Cook, on the Endeavour.
Tupaia, was originally from the island of Raiatea, known at the time as the Society Islands. He had been living on Tahiti, for a number of years. He had requested protection with the chief of Tahiti, from the Bora Bora warriors who had invaded his island home. Tupaia, became a very respected adviser to the Tahitians, with his knowledge of navigation throughout the Pacific, and the people and traditions of these islands. He also became the high priest of Tahiti.
During the months that James Cook, stayed in Tahiti to track the transit of Venus,he and especially Joseph Banks, became friends with Tupaia. Cook and Banks were very impressed of his knowledge and navigation around the Pacific, by his use of the stars. Tupaia had mapped , and had the knowledge of navigating the islands of the Society, the Austral, the Cook, Samoa, Tonga, Tokelau, and Rotuma.
Tupaia, (with his young apprentice Taiata), requested that they travel with Cook on his return voyage to England. Tupaia, wanted to see and learn more from these strange people. At first Cook was hesitant to take on passengers, as the expedition was funded by the Government. It was Joseph Banks, who insisted that Tupaia and Taiata,travel with them, offering to pay for their passage. Banks, shared his cabin with Tupaia.
Tupaia, became invaluable with the navigation and further exploration while on the Endeavour. He was able to communicate with the Māori people of New Zealand. Unfortunately, he was not able to communicate with the Aboriginals of Australia.
Tupaia and Taiata, sadly passed away before reaching England. While the Endeavour was anchored in Batavia, for repairs and supplies Tupaia and Taiata, wandered the streets of the city which had open sewerage, and disease was rife. They both fell ill, and passed away.
Tupaia, was a man of genius, an artist, navigator and respected high priest. He was a valuable part of Cook’s exploration of the Pacific, and the mapping of the east coast of Australia.
You can learn more about this incredible man through the journals of Lt. James Cook’s, copies of which are on display at the Agnes Water Museum.
