Waka ama squad ready to make waves in Hawai’i

University of Auckland waka ama team, the Engineering Eagles, are set to make a splash in Hawai’i as they gear up for the Queen Lili’uokalani Canoe Race, the largest race of its kind in the world.

The Eagles earned their place in the competition, which runs from 29 August to 2 September, with a hard-fought victory at the Great Waka Ama Race in March. Held at Okahu Bay, the annual event saw faculty and student-association teams battle it out to secure the honour of representing the University in the 30km challenge in Hawai’i, where their skills and endurance will be tested on the world stage.

For student paddler Josiah Seleni, the road to Hawai’i has been one of intense training and personal development. Brought up playing rugby and basketball, Seleni initially found waka ama to be a different kind of challenge – one that not only tested physical strength but mental fortitude and teamwork.

“Even if you’re the biggest and strongest out on the waka, that doesn’t guarantee you’ll be the best. It’s all about how well you can work with your team and adapt to changing conditions on the water,” he says.

With its deep ties to the moana, Seleni says waka ama has given him an appreciation for the sport and its rich heritage.

“Culturally, waka ama is beautiful with the connection between the paddlers feeling somewhat spiritual,” he says.

The team’s demanding weekly training routine consists of three water sessions, two gym workouts, a yoga class and kapa haka practice. It’s all helped to strengthen the team’s bond, according to Seleni.

“When we’re out in the ocean battling strong currents, fierce winds, heavy rain and freezing temperatures, we have to rely on each other for support and motivation. These tough conditions have been crucial in building our trust and helping us grow stronger as a team.”

His teammate and fellow engineering student, Alex Morriss, says that being part of the waka ama community has had a huge impact on his experience as an international student. He started paddling after arriving from the UK last year, and says participating has provided him with a great opportunity to immerse himself in Māori culture and traditions.

“Having conversations with my teammates about their backgrounds has allowed me to learn about their culture. I’ve also really enjoyed learning the waiata and haka which we will be performing in Hawai’i as it has allowed me to try these traditions first hand.”

He says he's especially excited about experiencing the atmosphere of the competition.

“It will be a spectacle to see the different teams from all over the world. I’ve loved being part of the team and seeing how we’ve all improved individually as well as gelling together as a team since we started training together. Each of us have our own assets in terms of what we bring to the team, and we’ve learnt how to work together to get the best out of the boat.”

He urges everyone to give waka ama a go, especially international students in New Zealand.

“It’s the perfect opportunity to try something new, meet new people and see more of the country. The training has been great for my fitness and being out on the water regularly has been really beneficial for my mental wellbeing while studying at the University.”