Key Takeaways
- Vaka Moana – From Tārai Pō to Takitimu is a graphic novel that shares the story of the ancestral waka of Ngāti Kahungunu.
- The book tells the story of the Takitimu waka and its journey across the Pacific Ocean from Samoa to Aotearoa New Zealand.
- The graphic novel draws on pūrākau/ancient kōrero passed down through generations, honouring the many island homelands, navigators, and storytellers connected to the waka.
- The aim of the book is to engage tamariki and rangatahi with ancient forms of kōrero and to help them recognise the enduring links between the people of Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa/the Pacific Ocean.
Introduction to Vaka Moana
Vaka Moana – From Tārai Pō to Takitimu is a graphic novel that has been launched by Ātea a Rangi Educational Trust, with the aim of inspiring future generations by sharing the story of the ancestral waka of Ngāti Kahungunu. The book tells the story of the Takitimu waka, which took Māori across the Pacific to Aotearoa, and its many other names as it travelled across Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa/the Pacific Ocean from Samoa to Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, and Rarotonga before bringing the ancestors of Ngāti Kahungunu to Aotearoa New Zealand. This graphic novel is a unique and engaging way to share the history and culture of the Pacific Islands and the journey of the Takitimu waka.
The Story of the Takitimu Waka
The story of the Takitimu waka is one that has been passed down through generations, and it is a story that is deeply rooted in the culture and history of the Pacific Islands. The waka, which is also known by many other names, travelled across the Pacific Ocean, stopping at various islands along the way, before finally arriving in Aotearoa New Zealand. The journey of the Takitimu waka is a testament to the navigational skills and bravery of the ancient Pacific Islanders, who were able to travel long distances across the ocean using only the stars, the wind, and the currents to guide them. The story of the Takitimu waka is an important part of the history and culture of Ngāti Kahungunu, and it is a story that is still celebrated and honoured today.
The Importance of Pūrākau and Ancient Kōrero
The graphic novel Vaka Moana – From Tārai Pō to Takitimu draws on pūrākau/ancient kōrero passed down through generations, honouring the many island homelands, navigators, and storytellers connected to the waka. Pūrākau and ancient kōrero are an important part of the culture and history of the Pacific Islands, and they provide a unique window into the past, allowing us to learn about the people, places, and events that have shaped the region. By drawing on these ancient stories, the graphic novel is able to provide a rich and detailed account of the journey of the Takitimu waka, and to share the history and culture of the Pacific Islands in a way that is both engaging and accessible.
The Aim of the Book
The aim of Vaka Moana – From Tārai Pō to Takitimu is to engage tamariki and rangatahi with ancient forms of kōrero and to help them recognise the enduring links between the people of Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa/the Pacific Ocean. By sharing the story of the Takitimu waka, the book aims to inspire a sense of pride and connection to the Pacific Islands and their culture, and to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of the history and traditions of the region. The book is also intended to provide a unique and engaging way to learn about the Pacific Islands and their culture, and to offer a fresh perspective on the history and traditions of the region.
The Launch of the Book
The book was launched by Ātea a Rangi Educational Trust, which is a organisation that is dedicated to promoting and preserving the culture and history of the Pacific Islands. The trust’s co-founder, Piripi Smith, said that some people might not be familiar with the entire story of the Takitimu waka before it became known as Takitimu or before it came to Aotearoa. The launch of the book provides an opportunity for people to learn about the story of the Takitimu waka and its significance in the culture and history of the Pacific Islands. The book is an important resource for anyone who is interested in learning about the Pacific Islands and their culture, and it is a valuable addition to the growing body of literature on the subject.