Steven Gentry trained as a civil engineer, but has always had an interest in the natural world. His career in consulting engineering led him into the far corners of the developing world and particularly the South Pacific. His experiences led to directorships in the wider corporate scene, but all the while his interest in the history and the flora and fauna of the Pacific continued unabated. Steve's curiosity about the Kermadecs was whetted when Heritage Expeditions announced their first visit to the islands in the Spirit of Enderby in 2005. He was an enthusiastic participant, and in preparing for the visit realised how much disparate information was available about the islands that had never been drawn together in any form. Five years ago his thoughts turned to writing a history of the Kermadecs, and as he will tell you, it has been a fascinating journey.