Waka on the Avon by Jessica

 

 As we journey to the other side of the world, it is important to learn about the history and culture of New Zealand. The indigenous people, the Māori, have immense ties to the land and its cultivation. We first began to learn about Māori history through class lectures and also through a movie called Whale Rider, which took us on our own ride from past to present; the story told of how a whale carried a man named Paikea to the land long ago, and how chiefs have emerged from the call of the whale ever since. Early settlers reached New Zealand through the waka (a boat) as well. It became evident that water holds a special place in the heart of Māori culture. It then seemed especially fitting that we took a waka ride on the Avon while in Christchurch.

 The first part of our cultural experience entailed taking paddles and learning directional terms through a game of speed and mental acuity. The guide would yell out “maui” (left), “matau” (right), and “pākia” (clap), and we would have to run and grab the neighbor’s paddle or clap depending on the cue. The last four standing without dropping their paddles got the privilege of sitting at the front of the waka and leading the voyage. We learned some more paddle cues as a group and then loaded onto the water.

 As we glided through the water, we attentively listened to the singsong-like chant of the guide so that we could move the waka in synchrony through the water. It was beautiful to see how we all functioned as one whole and began paddling, tapping, and chanting in unison. Our guide briefly told us about the Christchurch land and how the river has been tied to the Māori family for generations.

 After we took a few laps up and down the awa (river), the waka ride then culminated in a race between two of our groups as we competed to reach upstream the fastest. The race was about speed, though it seemed as though it signified more than just brute strength, but also a statement about the cooperation and will to win between team members. As we raced down the finish line, it was extremely powerful to be a part of something larger than myself and learn more about Māori culture along the way.