AUCKLAND: Among the boats moored at Auckland's Viaduct Harbour is a giant replica of a traditional Maori waka (canoe) built in celebration of the Rugby World Cup. Organizers yesterday announced 240,000 visits had been made to the waka during its first week, which equates to one person visiting every second every hour it has been opened. The waka is a prominent symbol of Maori culture and heritage. The Maori are said to have descended from the crew of the waka which migrated to New Zealand across the Pacific. The complete construction of the 600 visitor capacity waka cost around NZ$2 million. The waka has been divided into various exhibitions including Maori artistry and Maori Rugby history. Maori All Blacks manager Peter Potaka said the exhibition was an emotional experience for some visitors. “We have even had people in tears as they look for a grandfather or family member's name on the roll of honor of Maori All Blacks. It has been something quite special,” said Potaka. Outside the waka one can witness Maori artists as they produce artworks from wood, greenstone and weaving. Extremely popular so far have been the Maori tattoo artists, who can also be found at the Maori showcase, allowing visitors to take home a permanent memory of New Zealand. BM
