What We Do

Waka Creation

We create all types of waka in many mediums

Kainga Waka creatively fuses a hugely diverse array of knowledge traditions to create an incubator and living repository for innovation and excellence in all aspects of kaupapa waka, toi whakairo and tarai waka. The bespoke waka workshop located in te ihi mātau of Kainga Waka will allow for the construction of all kinds of waka, from the smallest waka tētē to the mighty waka taua, to the ocean-going double-hulled waka hourua of our ingenious voyaging ancestors and everything in between, including the innovative Waka Taniwha Class of waka.

Expanding access to kaupapa waka through tōhunga-led, culturally safe, educational activities, micro credentials and curriculum development, mentorships and apprenticeships will provide a vital pathway for safeguarding our waka mātauranga; ensuring the resilience and sustainability of tohunga toi ake, tohunga whakairo and tohunga waka.

Waka Conservation

We conserve waka …

Kainga Waka understand that waka are taonga and must be cared for and protected throughout their lifetime. Taonga have wairua, each has mauri, a life-force that must be nurtured and nourished. Kaitiakitanga, care and conservation of waka is a critical element of our work which includes ongoing comprehensive evaluation, assessment, and maintenance of each and every waka.

Waka Paddling

We paddle waka …

We have decades of experience related to traditional canoeing and waka ama. Portage Crossing Traditional Canoeing and Sailing Association develops, encourages and organises the sport and culture of traditional Polynesian canoeing and sailing of single, double and triple hull canoes of the Pacific. The club members are foundation members of the Aotearoa waka ama community.

Manukau Outrigger Canoeing Whare Nui Trust will assist in providing for the social, economic and cultural wellbeing of people by adding to wide range of active outdoor activities within Tamaki Makaurau.

Waka Sailing

We sail waka …

Our Kainga Waka have been following in the footsteps of our amazing ancestors - our Kaivai (water eaters) who sailed thousands of miles across Te Moana Nui a Kiwa. We continue to train our rangatahi and whanau with holistic teaching and learning of all aspects of sailing - in diverse types of waka include single and double-hulled canoes.