HMS Coromandel
On 30 May 1820, HMS Coromandel, Captain Downie, arrived at the Bay of Islands from England. Two days later Reverend Samuel Marsden who had been on an excursion inland returned to Rangihoua and learned from Captain Downie that his intention was to head to the Firth of Thames in order to procure a cargo of timber.
When HMS Coromandel sailed for the Thames a few days later, Reverend Marsden accompanied them on their voyage. Captain Downie later reported that while at the Bay of Islands, whalers were in the practice of trading muskets and ammunition for pork and potatoes.
When HMS Coromandel sailed for the Thames a few days later, Reverend Marsden accompanied them on their voyage. Captain Downie later reported that while at the Bay of Islands, whalers were in the practice of trading muskets and ammunition for pork and potatoes.