Ancestral links help foster revival of (traditional) skills

Cultural ties that have their foundation in history have been rekindled in an initiative embraced by Rotorua’s Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.

Under the terms of a cultural exchange programme, the iconic Rotorua tourism operation will help indigenous Hawaiians revive their ancient carving skills.

These are skills the Hawaiians have lost over the last century and institute chief executive Andrew Te Whaiti says it’s exciting to see that his carvers are so highly regarded internationally.

Hawaiian cultural advisor
Randie Fong in Rotorua
for the signing

The exchange programme has been negotiated with the Kamehameha Schools, a trust that operates state-of the art learning centres at elementary, middle and high schools in Hawaii.

The trust’s aim is to integrate Hawaiian culture, language, history and tradition into educational programmes.

Andrew says the bond between the two organisations is strong because both operate under similar objectives – to invest in traditional arts, crafts and culture.

“To be approached by the Kamehameha Schools is a great honour and reflects the recognition the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute has internationally,” he says.

“We have strong ancestral links with Hawaii so the opportunity to share our culture and traditional skills is very special.”