Waka could be rare example

A waka excavated from Muriwai beach last year may be a rare example say history specialists. This example is most likely a waka tiwai. Te Ara (New Zealand's online Encyclopedia) tells me that these waka were probably the most common and used for everyday transportation. They were simply made without the extra parts that larger canoes needed for stability. It's exciting that a piece of New Zealand's history has been uncovered in our district. I wonder how long it's been in the sand?


For more information about waka, check out these books from the library

The Maori canoe : an account of the various types of vessels used by the Maori of New Zealand in former times : with some description of those of the isles of the Pacific, and a brief account of the peopling of New Zealand / by Elsdon Best.
Classification and description of Maori canoes -- The construction of the waka taua, or war-canoe, from tree stump to launching -- Fishing and river canoes; canoes of Chatham Islands; ceremonial observances pertaining to canoes -- Methods of propulsion: anchors -- Canoes of the Pacific area -- The peopling of New Zealand.

Nga waka Maori = Maori canoes (and second edition)/ by Anne Nelson.
"Looks at the origins and development of Maori canoes, the different types, the spiritual significances, their central role in Maori society and how this role changed with European contact. It describes waka racing ... explains how waka were manned, paddled, sailed and navigated"--Back cover.

Waka taua : the Maori war canoe / Jeff Evans.
"Introduction to the Maori war canoe. Key areas covered by the book include the renaissance of waka taua, types and variants of the canoe, phases of building, parts of the waka, responsibilities of the crew, and paddling the craft"--Back cover.