Kaihautu Waka Programme / Tikanga-a-Waka July 2003
Development and education in the areas of water safety and regulations are essential in order to preserve the integrity of Kaupapa Waka, as well as the safety and well-being of our dedicated practitioners in this field.
The 'Kaihautu Waka Programme' held at Te Tokawhakakotahi Marae, Bay of Islands College, Kawakawa was a course presented by tutors from Coast Guard Boating Education Services. Run over three days from 18 , 20 July 2003, the programme's focus was the New Zealand Day Skipper Certificate Course aimed towards waka personnel actively involved in Kaupapa Waka.
The Maori Studies Complex of the Bay of Islands College provided the facilities for accommodating, catering and facilitating the various components of the course.
There were 39 registered participants that attended the weekend course. Participants came from many areas of Aotearoa such as Blenheim, Wellington, Gisborne, Hamilton, Otorohanga, Te Teko, Paeroa, Auckland and various parts of Te Tai Tokerau. Members of Nga Waka Federation, and a representative of the Maritime Safety Authority were also in attendance most of whom participated in the course.
This programme achieved quite strongly two key strategic goals of Toi Maori Aotearoa; developing the artist, and developing the artforms. Development and education in the areas of water safety and regulations among waka personnel are essential in order to preserve not only the integrity of Kaupapa Waka, but also in preserving the safety and well-being of our dedicated practitioners in this field.