Archaeologists in New Zealand have discovered parts of an ancient carved waka in the Chatham Islands, about 800 km east of the mainland.
More than 450 artefacts from the canoe, which was found in pieces in a creek, are expected to reveal new insights into Polynesian voyaging, boat building, and trade. The waka’s age is still unknown, but experts believe it could be one of the most significant finds in Polynesian history.
Lead archaeologist Justin Maxwell called the discovery “incredible” and possibly the most important in New Zealand. Unlike past waka discoveries, where only small fragments were found, this canoe includes hundreds of components, from large wooden planks to decorative shells and woven materials. The find could help researchers understand how Polynesians traveled across the Pacific.
Local farmer Vincent Dix and his son Nikau first spotted pieces of timber after heavy rains uncovered them. At first, they thought the wood might make a good coffee table, but they soon realised its historical importance when they found a carved section.
Among the artefacts are a five-meter-long plank with holes for lashings, pieces of pāua shell, obsidian decorations, and woven ropes, likely part of a sail.
Scientists are now carefully preserving the waka while its history is studied. Samples will be tested to determine the age and origins of the materials. Meanwhile, the local community will decide the next steps, with plans to keep the remains on the island.
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