Archaeologists in the Chatham Islands have discovered parts of a traditional ocean-going canoe (waka), believed to be the most significant find in Polynesia. Over 450 artefacts were recovered from a creek, where the waka had been found broken. Lead archaeologist Justin Maxwell anticipates that this discovery will provide new insights into Polynesian boat construction and voyaging history. The find, noteworthy for its extensive range of materials and components, is considered a major development in the understanding of Polynesian maritime culture.
We can't overstate how incredible it is. It is by far the most important discovery in New Zealand, possibly Polynesia...it will go down as one of the most important finds of all time in Polynesia.
Normally, when waka have been found...you find very small parts of them. With this one, we have hundreds of components and a wide range of materials...it's incredible...help us learn so much more about Polynesian waka technology.
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