24 Jun 2010
After the recent signing of the Waka Deed ceremony by Toi Maori representatives at Volkenkunde Museum in Leiden, Netherlands, Toi Maori is now preparing to launch the new waka created by Master Waka Builder Hector Busby.
The Waka deed signing is an agreement between Toi Maori and Volkenkunde Museum to provide them with a ceremonial waka. It will be a working exhibition designed to draw people to the museum.
The Leiden waka will be officially launched on Saturday 26th June 2010 at Aurere,Doubtless Bayat 11am where its name will be announced as part of the waka launching ceremony. A haka specially composed for Leiden by Kaumatua Waka Historian Tepene Mamaku will also be featured as part of the launch.
Toi Maori General Manager, Garry Nicholas said legal ownership of this waka remains with Toi Maori as part of the organisations international strategy to promote New Zealand’s Maori art and culture to the world.
"Therefore Toi Maori has access to utilise the waka across Europe where we deem necessary to promote. This waka has all the cultural integrity elements added to the deed so that it will be looked after with care and respect."
Sea trials will be conducted by Kaihoe who have been selected by Robert Gabel, Chair of Nga Waka Federation.
The ceremonial waka will be on permanent loan to Volkenkunde Museum, and will remain as a working exhibition.Njord Royal Rowing Club based in Leiden will work alongside Volkenkunde Museum staff to maintain the ceremonial waka while it is in their care.
The official handover of the Ceremonial waka to Volkenkunde Museum will occur on the 18th October 2010 amidst an elaborate ceremony.
ENDS
About Toi Māori Aotearoa:
Toi Māori Aotearoa is the national organisation for Māori art and artists and receives major funding from Te Waka Toi, the Māori Arts Board of Creative New Zealand.
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