The Atafu Tokelau Community Group is one of the few Tokelau organisations in New Zealand to have built our own vaka - the "Mulihelu" (pictured above). Canoes or Vaka are important not only for fishing, but also in preserving the knowledge and skills for canoe building.

Canoes are important not only for fishing, but also in preserving the knowledge and skills for canoe building. Although modern boats are available, the traditional canoe is still favourite choice of raft for fishing, due to its flexibility and maneuvering when fishing.

Apr 4, 2025 · There are several types of canoes in Tokelau, each serving a specific purpose. The most common types include: Vaka: A general-purpose canoe used for fishing and transportation. Paopao: A smaller canoe designed for lagoon navigation. Va’a tele: A larger canoe used for long-distance voyages and transporting goods. Canoe Building Rituals

Jul 9, 2021 · This is a lualua, a double-hulled fishing canoe of Tokelau, complete with six foe or paddles, a bailer, and a fishing pole. In the way of the real thing, each of its two hulls is made of three sections, lashed together vertically with natural fibres. Cowrie shells …

Alo atu, skipjack/bonito casting from vaka (canoes) is the preeminent type of fishing in Tokelau. The vaka is paddled by four or five men while the tautai casts from the back of the vaka. A tautai is known who had a catch of over 100 bonito in a single day.

4 days ago · Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, Tokelau offers a serene escape for adventurers seeking to explore its hidden lagoons. Known for its pristine waters and vibrant marine life, Tokelau provides the perfect backdrop for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts.

The Pacific island nation of Tokelau is one of the most remote places on the planet, and, with the entire country sitting metres above sea level, one of the most under threat from climate change. Media creator Kate Whitley describes the journey to this vulnerable ‘necklace of small islands’.

This a model of a vaka (outrigger canoe) from Tokelau. Tokelauan people use vaka for transport around the atolls or to travel to fishing spots within and beyond the reef. They are usually propelled using paddles or sails. An ama (outrigger float) helps keep the vessel stable in the sea.

The Tokelau vaka has aspects of canoe design that are unique to Tokelau. A vaka is a large five-man canoe made for fishing, which reflects Tokelau’s communal approach to catching fish. The vaka’s distinctive features include how it is constructed.

Dec 12, 2023 · This Vaka (Canoe) ‘Tai Tokelau’ was made entirely from the Kanava tree in Tokelau. Carved with a mixture of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, the Vaka reflects both Tokelau’s past...