Getting the waka back on the awa!

Tēnā koe, I am the owner operator of the waka Ngā Tuke Mata o Kahungunu that was based in Te Awa o Mokotūāraro (Clive River). This is the only safe river we can use in Hawkes Bay. The waka was built and launched in 1996. Over the years we have provided waka experiences to local schools, business groups, community groups and cruise ship tours. The funds collected were used for maintenance of the waka. The waka has been in dry dock since 2019, when we had to remove him from the river due to severe mud build up. The river is 16 years overdue for dredging and I am asking the HB Regional Council to address. I have been recently diagnosed with Stage 4 Prostate cancer and my wish is to have one last ride with the waka on the river. Because of time in dry dock and no funding we are in need of donations to help with the waka rebuild. Special materials are needed to complete the project, paint, glue, native wood and the cost of the crame and transportation to the river. If you wish to join in the journey please go to our Facebook page for updates.

" Ehara tāku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takatini."

My strength is not that of an individual, but that of a collective.

Ngā mihi,

Jim Edwards.