The vast Pacific covers one third of the world’s surface, and the story of its exploration and settlement is an epic tale of human endeavour. Cross-cultural historian Dame Anne Salmond, visual artist Michel Tuffery and waka captain Hoturoa Barclay-Kerr recount and relive this incredible story in writing, artworks and waka voyaging.  

Their work celebrates the achievements of the original Pacific explorers, voyaging in wooden watercraft, guided only by the stars and their intimate knowledge of the sea. It also provides new insights into contact history, and the key role played by charismatic individuals, both Polynesian and European, in creating cross-cultural understanding. 

Presented by the Australian Wooden Boat Festival, this event invites you to an extraordinary conversation with three esteemed interpreters of Pacific history and identity, moderated by Kate Fullagar and featuring live performances by Māori cultural troupe Ngā Mātai Pūrua.