A man wearing a kākahu (clothing garment) and holding a hīrau (waka paddle).

White text reads, "Te Kawau ki Tai. The Story of a Waka".

14m

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei begins a journey to revive a cherished tradition: the construction of their new waka taua.

Made with the support of NZ On Air & Te Māngai Pāho

Series details.

Credits

Annabelle Lee-Mather & Mihingarangi Forbes
Executive Producers
Sarah Hall & Rewa Harriman
Co-Directors & Co-Producers
Natasha Vela
Production Manager
Kingi Makoare
Narrator
Tim Burnell
RNZ Commissioning Team Lead
Jana Te Nahu Owen
RNZ Commissioner, Māori
Nicholas Meuli
RNZ Commissioning Assistant
Shannon Haunui-Thompson
RNZ Tumu Māori
Megan Whelan
RNZ Chief Content Officer
Robert Whitaker
RNZ Design Lead
Jayne Joyce
RNZ Senior Graphic Designer
Josie Campbell
RNZ Publicity Manager

Ngā mihi - Jodhi Hoani

In the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei begins a transformative journey to revive a cherished tradition: the construction of their new waka taua. For over two decades, the absence of this symbol of cultural pride has been keenly felt by the iwi, but now their dream is set to become reality.

The series delves into the history of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei with waka taua, and the meticulous process of crafting the new waka. The journey also captures the emotional and cultural weight of reclaiming this integral part of their identity.

Te Kawau ki Tai is a poignant series that illustrates how the restoration of this cultural icon serves as a beacon of resilience and a testament to their enduring cultural legacy on the Waitematā.

Produced by

Partner Logo for Aotearoa Media Collective for use on dark background

Made with the support of

Partner Logo for NZ on Air for use on dark background

Made with the support of

Partner Logo for Te Mangai Paho for use on dark background
https://www.tmp.govt.nz

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