Commerce
The whale ship Commerce visited the Bay of Islands in 1807. Prior to being at the Bay, she called at Chatham Islands and took on new crew in the form of a Maoriori who acted as interpreter. Having previously been to New Zealand the man knew he could communicate with Maori despite language differences.
An interpreter was an important asset during times of early trade in New Zealand. Some Europeans left their ships to take on this role for chiefs. These men became known as go-betweens, not only bridging the gap in language, but also showing native New Zealanders how to use items they traded for.
An interpreter was an important asset during times of early trade in New Zealand. Some Europeans left their ships to take on this role for chiefs. These men became known as go-betweens, not only bridging the gap in language, but also showing native New Zealanders how to use items they traded for.