Since 2010, the Māori from New Zealand have entrusted two wakas (canoes) to Museum Volkenkunde and rowing club K.S.R.V. Njord. Volunteers from rowing club K.S.R.V. Njord were enlisted to provide the context. They mastered the canoe technique, rituals, language and spiritual values and traveled to New Zealand to be welcomed as tribal members. The Māori transferred the waka to the museum and to their new tribe during an impressive ceremony in Leiden. Every year, members of this group (with new members joining all the time) go to New Zealand to learn more about canoes and Māori customs and rituals.
The Waka Support Foundation supports these volunteers, ensuring the development and sustainability of this unique project.
Want to know more or support this special project? Visit www.waka-support.nl for more information.