Supporting the Next Generation on the Water

Yachting Developments was proud to play a small part in Te Hau Wawara, an initiative bringing together Black Foils and Te Toki Voyaging Trust to connect the next generation with sailing, traditional voyaging and the moana.

The initiative saw rangatahi take to the waters of Ōkahu Bay alongside some of New Zealand's leading sailors, celebrating a shared vision to make sailing waka more accessible to communities throughout Aotearoa.

Behind the scenes, Yachting Developments had the pleasure of contributing to the construction of the waka pontoons and cross beams, with our apprentices given the opportunity to be involved in the project.

The build provided a valuable hands-on experience for our emerging boatbuilders, bringing together practical craftsmanship and the opportunity to contribute to a project with a meaningful purpose beyond the workshop.

Of particular significance was the use of kauri timber for the cross beams, connecting the build with a material deeply rooted in New Zealand's boatbuilding heritage.

For a yard built on generations of craftsmanship, projects like these are a welcome reminder of the importance of passing skills and knowledge forward, while supporting initiatives that encourage young New Zealanders to develop their own connection with the water.

We congratulate Black Foils, Te Toki Voyaging Trust and everyone involved in bringing Te Hau Wawara to life. It was a privilege to contribute to such a fantastic initiative, and we look forward to seeing its vision grow.

Watch the Te Hau Wawara initiative below.