Lost in Translation 1 - The Beginnings (First Episode)

Television (Full Length Episode) – 2009

They just have this community pride that I haven't seen anywhere. New Zealand could learn a lot from the people of the East Coast — I mean everyone just seems to get on. It really is the New Zealand that I desire to have: where everyone, regardless of fiscal background, everyone is proud and caring of their neighbour.
– Mike King on the East Coast of the North Island, near the end of this episode

You could be surprised by how little you knew about the document and those early days. Intrigued too. And you might even be impressed by the new Mike King.
– Willie Jackson writes about Lost in Translation, Auckland Now, 3 March 2009

But bro if we hadn’t signed the treaty we’d be speaking French and be s**t at rugby.
– Mike King,during one of the show's many interviews

Before this journey the things I knew about the Treaty of Waitangi were that the white man came over and ripped us off — that was the sum total of what I knew about the Treaty.
– Presenter Mike King, early in this episode

...at the time of the signing of this treaty — of the Treaty of Waitangi — there was goodwill on both sides.
– Presenter Mike King, early in this episode

I can’t wait to meet all New Zealanders up at Waitangi, and for them to say to me we’re here because our opinion of this wonderful document has changed.
– Mike King on his hopes for the show

Lost in Translation is a fantastically positive show ... without a shadow of a doubt, it's the best thing that I've ever done.
– Mike King, at the end of this episode

Ten years ago I badgered Mike King, one of my Māori mates, into tagging along with me to the treaty grounds for Waitangi Day ... He had it in mind that Waitangi would be unappealing because judging from media reports over the years there would be protests galore and ugly confrontations with the cops. [He] now says it was a turning point in his life because he was able to see Kiwi society in a different and more positive light.
– Willie Jackson on persuading Mike King to visit Waitangi, Auckland Now, 3 March 2009