The Chief and the Empire by Eugene Bingham (Pākehā, Ngāpuhi) uncovers the extraordinary true tale of Te Tai Tokerau rangatira Te Pahi – the first influential Māori leader to cross the Tasman – whose curiosity about the Pākehā world forged alliances, saved lives, and ultimately cost him his own.

Part history, part true-crime investigation, it is a riveting account of Te Pahi’s journey and early Māori–Pākehā encounters, the injustice that destroyed a leader, and the unexpected legacy carried by the descendants of the men he fought to protect.

The lauded journalist, writer and producer known for bringing remarkable stories to light meets Annabelle Lee-Mather (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Māmoe) to discuss this incredible tale that shaped Aotearoa and Australia, and what went into its telling.