origami whai

This week we are learning about ngā whetū Waitī and Waitā. Waitī is associated with fresh water, and the food found in it, while Waitā is associated with the ocean and its food – kaimoana.

Ngā iwi o Tauranga Moana consider the Whai keo (eagle stingray) as a sacred protector of their moana. It was seen as one of the Kaitiaki (guardians) of Te Awanui (Tauranga Harbour), protecting the areas where shellfish are harvested. It was believed that if people followed the right tikanga (customary practices), the stingray would ensure there were plenty of shellfish.

Watch the video to learn a bit more about whai and how to make an origami whai.