Vaka Paikea had a good maiden voyage to the homeland of Mauke/Akatokamanava arriving at the island on Wednesday and fulfilling the dream of its captain, master navigator Peia Patai.

“It was a really special moment for Peia to bring Paikea home to his people and receive a traditional turou followed by a welcoming feast,” said Te Puna Marama Voyaging Foundation trustee Cecile Marten.

“And it was very important that we take Vaka Paikea home first to the people of Mauke for their blessing before Paikea commences the working projects ahead.”

Vaka Paikea left Avarua Harbour on Tuesday at 10.30am.

The crew had experienced a mix of weather patterns and good breezes sailing over to Mauke, sighting the island about 11am on Wednesday.

Patai and his crew, including his youngest son Temanava, disembarked from the vaka moored outside the reef at 2pm and were welcomed ashore by the whole island. A special turou was conducted by Vaiuna Samuela-Dyer.

An original Paikea song recently composed by Daniel Tutaka from Mauke was played accompanied by a graceful performance by soloist Ngametua Teaka.

There was also an opportunity to get community onboard Vaka Paikea while Patai and the film crew conducted interviews on the island. 

Paikea departed Mauke yesterday morning. If the weather conditions are good the vaka is expected to arrive midday today at the earliest. If the Avana passage is clear they will enter there otherwise they dock outside Avarua.

The crew on Paikea’s maiden voyage are: Captain Peia Patai, Maurai Villa, Zebadiah Revake, Tereora (Front) Ngamata, Ian Tairea, Tariu Tairea, Bentley Dean, Tom Murray, Tuaine “Katu” Teiti and Temanava Patai - the youngest crew member.

Vaka Paikea, formerly the Vaka Motu Okeanos Waaqab, was purchased by Te Puna Marama Voyaging Foundation last year.

The trustees of Te Puna Marama would like to express their appreciation to the Mauke Island Council and the community for their great welcome.

“We are so proud to bring Paikea home and leave with the blessings of the people of Mauke,” Patai said.