We look back on Māhuhu o te Rangi (Aotearoa’s largest waka taua), its voyages on the Waitematā, and its place within the iwi.

We explore the build itself from the first sketch on the rākau to the final chisel strike. It will be based in Whangārei, where master carver and waka builder Heemi Eruera will work his magic.

As important as the waka, are the kaihoe who will man it. We follow them as they prepare for this momentous occasion, starting with land training, involving learning haka, ngeri, and technique.

Wāhine play a critical role in whānau, hapū, and iwi as whare tangata (procreators) and whare matauranga (repositories of knowledge) - but what role do they have in waka taua?

We will join Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei in the final stage of their preparations for the launch that will bring all the elements of the waka journey together.