He mihi nui ana ki a koutou.
What an incredible weekend we shared for our very first Waka Taurua Wānanga here in Te Tauihu!
A huge mihi to Piripi and Michelle Smith for travelling to us and generously sharing their kōrero and mātauranga. To our rangatahi for showing up with heart and commitment, and to everyone who contributed to the success of the wānanga — ngā mihi nui.
Throughout the weekend, we explored waka whakapapa with Piripi and strengthened our practical skills. Our rangatahi learned and taught one another how to tie bowline and reef knots, each taking home their own taura to share what they’ve learnt with friends and whānau.
Down at the moana, we worked together to prepare our waka — from unloading them off the trailer to setting up the rig and reversing the process. We also played kēmu to familiarise ourselves with te ingoa o te waka taurua, before heading out for multiple sails under different conditions. Each voyage deepened our connection to te taiao, our waka, and one another.
We’re incredibly proud of our future kaumoana o Te Tauihu. This kaupapa has been about building resilience, teamwork, and connection — and our rangatahi rose to every challenge with determination and pride.
In the coming weeks, Kākano and Karanga Weka will travel to Motueka High School, where our rangatahi will have the opportunity to share their learning and experiences from this wānanga.
Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa — thank you for being part of this special kaupapa.
