Written by Ayyub Ali.

On Friday the 3rd of May 40 Pasifika boys from CBHS went to Lyttleton harbor marina to learn about how our ancestors travelled on double hulled ocean-going waka (waka hourua) and the skills they needed to venture on the land of endless blue.

We were split up into two groups, learning as a group then swapping over. Being able to tie a variety of different knots was essential for our ancestors while also knowing how to guide the waka to its destination using a carved star compass. A bowline and bight knot were the ones we ended up doing, which started off easily but then became a little hard once we had to attach something to it. At the end of this lesson both groups ended up doing a race to see how fast we were able to identify and tie the knots we did. It was a fun experience knowing that we could now do what our ancestors did.

The Polynesian star compass was used to get from one place to another, also being assisted by the ocean currents, wind andmarine life. Instead of the normal, north south, east, and west it was raki Tonga Whitianga and tomokanga. All these names were given to signify the islands in that direction.

After some nice food and some rugby at morning tea our next lesson was sailing on the Hinemoana. Going on and doing respected jobs of the crew mates was a first for everyone. As we went out of the dock setting sail to the sea it was appearant that the wind started to pick up and the waves became rougher but regardless it was a site to behold. Under the Hinemoana we saw bunks that were surprisingly comfortable as one of the crew members, Diamond, even stating it is more relaxing due to the boat rocking you to sleep. Seeing the boys talking and communicating with each other was very cool to see them also making new friends.

At the end of this trip, we bid farewell to the instructors with a song and left with new knowledge and a new experience. We hope that it will not be a once in a lifetime memory so we are all anticipating for another venture to Lyttleton.

Ayyub Ali