Extensive discussion, consultation, research and collaboration on the safety issues facing the waka community culminated in the launch of National Safety Guidelines for Waka, Kaupapa Waka on 4 October 2001.

Ngā Waka Federation, Nga Kaihoe o Aotearoa and Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) launched the guidelines at Hobsons Wharf in the Viaduct Basin in Auckland.

These guidelines were developed by the waka community in partnership with MNZ, and detail safety procedures for the two largest waka groups, waka ama (racing waka) and waka taua (ceremonial waka).

A series of hui were held throughout the country with various iwi and waka groups, to gather information on traditional safety practices already in place, share concerns, and discuss the establishment of national guidelines for safety.

Hoturoa Kerr of Nga Kaihoe o Aotearoa has been involved in waka ama for a number of years, and played an integral role in the consultation process.

"One of the most important things to come out of this process has been the partnerships that have developed, the sharing of knowledge and experience. Māori have worked with Māori, waka ama have worked with waka taua and we have all worked with Maritime New Zealand to produce procedures that are acceptable and inclusive," says Mr Kerr.

These guidelines are a symbol of consultation and partnership between the government and the waka community. They will help ensure the integrity, mana and future of a national symbol – the waka.

The guidelines have been developed by the waka community for the waka community, and they go further than just detailing safety procedures. They clarify the roles and responsibilities of all those who paddle, support and embrace the waka, as well as outlining training, operational and emergency procedures, equipment and construction requirements.

MNZ works to promote safety on the water and we are pleased to have been able to support such a positive initiative, driven by the waka community, to ensure the safety of their crews.

Waka Ama Guidelines [PDF: 746Kb, 13 pages]

Waka Taua Guidelines [PDF: 116Kb, 21 pages]