Early European contact in New Zealand (Abel Tasman to James Cook, 1642–1779)

1. Tasman sights New Zealand’s South Island

   Dec 13, 1642Labels: Abel Tasman, South Island

   • NZHistory
   • NZGeo

2. Tasman anchors in Golden Bay (Mohua)

   Dec 18, 1642Labels: Heemskerck, Golden Bay

   • NZHistory
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3. First recorded Māori–European encounter turns violent

   Dec 19, 1642Labels: Golden Bay, Murderers' Bay

   • NZHistory
   • NZHistory

4. Cook’s Endeavour sights land off New Zealand

   Oct 6, 1769Labels: James Cook, HMB Endeavour

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5. Cook anchors at Poverty Bay (Tūranganui-a-Kiwa)

   Oct 8, 1769Labels: Poverty Bay, T ranganui-a-Kiwa

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6. Cook observes the transit of Mercury at Mercury Bay

   Nov 9, 1769Labels: Mercury Bay, Charles Green

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7. Cook claims Mercury Bay for Britain

   Nov 15, 1769Labels: Mercury Bay, King George

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8. Endeavour anchors at Ship Cove, Queen Charlotte Sound

   Jan 15, 1770Labels: Ship Cove, Meretoto

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9. Cook completes circumnavigation of the North Island

   Feb 9, 1770Labels: North Island, Cape Turnagain

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10. Endeavour departs New Zealand after coastal charting

    Apr 1, 1770Labels: Cape Farewell, HMB Endeavour

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11. Resolution and Adventure reunite at Queen Charlotte Sound

    May 17, 1773Labels: HMS Resolution, HMS Adventure

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12. Cook returns to Queen Charlotte Sound without Adventure

    Nov 3, 1773Labels: Ship Cove, HMS Resolution

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13. Ten Adventure crew killed at Wharehunga Bay

    Dec 17, 1773Labels: HMS Adventure, Wharehunga Bay

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14. Cook returns to Queen Charlotte Sound on third voyage

    Feb 12, 1777Labels: HMS Resolution, Queen Charlotte

    • Cook3rd
    • NZHistory