Maori Carvers Head To The Netherlands

Four Maori Carvers Head To The Netherlands To Build Waka Shelter For New Waka Taua

After the recent launching ceremony and naming of 'Te Hono ki Aotearoa' waka taua on Saturday 26th June 2010 at Aurere, Bay of Islands, the waka is now being prepared to be transported by ship to the Netherlands.

Four carvers, Dr Takirirangi Smith (Master Carver from Ngati Kahungunu who lives in Whitby, Porirua), Sam Hauwaho (from Tuhoe, who lives in Waiwhetu, Lower Hutt), Brett Rollo (Ngapuhi, Scottish descent who lives in Wellington) and Hinangaroa Smith (Ngati Kahungunu who lives in Whakatane) will travel to the Netherlands on Saturday 31st July 2010 to carve posts and barge boards for a waka shelter over a 4 week period. The waka shelter will house the new waka taua.

At the same time the carvers leave for the Netherlands, kaihoe (paddlers) will assemble for the first of three wananga in Hamilton in preparation for the hand over of the waka taua in October.

The ceremonial waka will be on permanent loan to Volkenkunde Museum, and will remain as a working exhibition. Njord Royal Rowing Club based in Leiden will work alongside Volkenkunde Museum staff to maintain and crew the waka while it is in their care.

The official handover of the waka to Volkenkunde Museum will occur on the 18th October 2010 amidst an elaborate ceremony.

ENDS

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