Mōkihi or mogi were an essential means of transport for early Māori travelling the waterways of Te Waipounamu. Our oral traditions tell us that mōkihi, constructed from raupō and kōrari (plant materials known for their buoyant properties), have been used on our waterways for centuries, and rock art drawings in archaeological sites near the Ōpihi River confirm this.

Under the guidence of Joe Wakefield and David Perenara-O’Connell, teachers and students from the College of Education, along with Taumutu whānau harvested raupō in anticipation of the wānanga mōkihi in a couple of month’s time.

There were three activities – harvesting mōkihi, making wharerau at the beach and making small waka to be floated down Waikekewai. There was lots of laughter, impressive creativity and a bubbling buzz of competitiveness. Another legendary tamariki day at Taumutu.

Keanu Turner, Morehu Merito, Metua Cranwell and Chris Astall.

Biddy Robilliard, David Perenara-O’Connell and University of Canterbury students.

Taumutu whānau with the students and staff from the college of education.