Abel Tasman

Abel Janszoon Tasman was the first explorer of european heritage (Dutch) to 'discover' Tasmania and New Zealand.

Somehow when he came ashore in Tasman Bay (NZ) in the 1600's I don't think this is the skyline he saw. Nor do I think seagulls were making familiar with his hat.

This statue of him is at Tahuna Beach in Nelson where he looks out to sea. I suspect he's wishing he was out sailing the open seas again, off to explore somewhere a darn sight quieter.