Maori Cultural and Historic Tours by Kaitiaki Tours

Waka tour make waves

A traditional waka tour through the Waitemata Harbour is dispelling myths about tikanga Maori.

Kaitiaki Tours, run by Orakei Water Sports at The Landing in Okahu Bay, is launching the city’s first iwi and marae-based waka ama rides to Devonport and back.

Co-founder Donna Tamaariki says they are the only waka tour group on the Waitemata to have experienced, local guides from Ngati Whatua to tell people about the history of the area.

"We will share our stories. There’s lots of history out there. I want it to be a teaser, and to inspire people to find out more about this area."

Mrs Tamaariki says it’s poignant given the cultural and historical flavour of the tours, which have the blessing of Ngati Whatua.

She says some people were against what they were doing and told them to "just forget about the past".

"People often refer to Maori living in Auckland as ‘urban Maori’. But Ngati Whatua is not urban Maori.

"We were here before the Sky Tower. It’s just as important for New Zealanders to know our history."

History, she says, like the old marae and homestead that burnt down in the 1950s.

It’s this experience and knowledge, coupled with views of Okahu Bay from the sea, that will draw people, she says.

"When you look up from the water and see it, it’s really incredible. It’s a completely different view and you appreciate its magnificence."

The return trip from Okahumatamomoe, or Okahu Bay, to Te Hau Kapua, Devonport, takes about one hour and can be completed by people of average fitness.

A barbecue lunch winds up the journey.

Tours are every Sunday from September 21 if conditions permit, on the hour from 10am to 2pm.

Call Donna Tamaariki: 027 284 7401