As part of our end of year celebrations, we are also working on building our relationships within Te Pā.

Tau 8, along with Whaea Mackie and Matua Tohi joined Karikari for a day on the water. This was a great way to manaaki tau 8 and join together with their tuākana before transitioning to Karikari next year.

The day started with the safety briefing and into the mahi they got. First teaching the basics and commands, before preparing the two waka. They were lucky enough to get to experience both the 6 and the 12.

On the water, the two crews got into a flow and started picking up some pace. For some, it was their first time, their body definitely felt it, however all did an amazing job and with limited splashes, their were smiles on everyone's face. After having a go at digging in pairs, it was time for a rest and swim, before swapping over and heading back.

A huge mihi to everyone who makes these experiences possible for our pononga. Learning by getting out and experiencing things is what we are all about here at Te Pā o Rākaihautū, and how special it is to be able to paddle in Whakaraupō, surrounded by Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū, and having Te Poho o Tamatea standing proud. Tū ki te ao, tau ana.