Story: Dutch

Abel Tasman’s ships

Abel Tasman’s ships

This engraving is based on drawings made during the voyage of Dutch explorer Abel Tasman to New Zealand in 1642. It shows the ships Zeehaen and Heemskerck close to the Three Kings Islands. In the background two giant Māori watch the ships approach.

Using this item

Alexander Turnbull Library
Reference: PUBL-0105-004
Engraving after a drawing by Isaac Gilsemans

Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, National Library of New Zealand, Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Redmer Yska, 'Dutch - First arrivals', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/artwork/810/abel-tasmans-ships (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Redmer Yska, published 8 Feb 2005, updated 1 May 2016