The kaihautu (captain) of New Zealand's largest waka expects the Waitangi Day regatta will be a memorable experience for two groups of international paddlers.
A dozen kaihoe from North America and a group of Dutch paddlers will join the crew of the Bay of Islands-based Nga Toki Matawhaorua.
Joe Conrad says the presence of the manuhiri is testament to the work that Nga Waka Federation of Aotearoa has done in forging connections with partners in Oregon, Seattle and in Holland.
He told Waatea News that Waitangi is obviously the elite waka pageant in the whole country and it's good to have them here.
