What began with a powerful pōwhiri grew into days of sharing stories, knowledge, culture, and a shared vision for Moananuiākea.This is the story of a welcome that became a deeper connection between Pacific peoples.

Now, experience this special moment in this new episode of Nā Moʻolelo Moananuiākea. Witness the pōwhiri (welcoming ceremony), connections, and relationships that unfolded between Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and our Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia crews.

_________

“Love is the most powerful energy between the Pacific people, how we respect immediately, and love each other without exception. So we just love being with our Pacific brothers and sisters.”

– Renata Blair, Director of the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust Board

As Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia sailed into Ōkahu Bay, Aotearoa, alongside the Māori waka hourua Haunui, they were met with a powerful and moving welcome from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. Waiata (traditional Māori songs), pūtātara, and chants rang out across the bay as hundreds gathered to witness the arrival.

For the first time, Te Kawau, the newly built waka taua (war canoe) of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, welcomed manuhiri (visitors) into its waters. Alongside Te Kawau, Tātai Hono carried the wāhine of the iwi as Hōkūleʻa, Hikianalia, and their crews were welcomed ashore through a traditional pōwhiri.

But the welcome did not end when the canoes reached shore.

The crews of Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia were hosted by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, sharing time, stories, and knowledge while building relationships through deep cultural exchange. Conversations centered around our peoples’ journeys, our shared vision for Moananuiākea, and the responsibility we carry to the generations who will follow.

Through these moments of connection, our peoples grew closer, reminding us that voyaging is not only about crossing oceans, but about the relationships we build along the way.

We extend our deepest mahalo to Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei for their warm embrace, their incredible welcome, and the care they showed Hōkūleʻa, Hikianalia, and our crews. We were deeply touched and inspired by the stories, knowledge, and aloha shared with us, and we look forward to growing our future together.