Geoffrey Paparoa-Holman
Poet, historian and author of The Best of Both Worlds; provided biographical context and expert commentary on Elsdon Best during the episode.
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Feb 19, 2026 • 51min
Preservation and Destruction: the story of Elsdon Best (Part 2)
Himana Waka, filmmaker/researcher from Ngāi Tūhoe, and Geoffrey Paparoa-Holman, historian and biographer of Elsdon Best, discuss Best living in Te Urewera and his deep but fraught ties with Tūhoe leaders. They trace his recording of songs, whakapapa and sacred knowledge, tests of trust and breaches of tikanga, tensions over publications and land court work, and how relationships ultimately unraveled.
Feb 12, 2026 • 38min
Preservation and Destruction: the story of Elsdon Best (Part 1)
Hemana Waka, Ngāi Tūhoe contributor who offered cultural and historical insight, and Geoffrey Paparoa Holman, poet, historian and author, discuss Elsdon Best. They trace his upbringing between Māori and Pākehā worlds. They cover his absorption of Māori knowledge, time in the bush, military service and contested access to sacred knowledge. Tensions between praise and modern criticism are explored.
