Māori navigation
Māori navigation refers to the traditional methods used by the Māori people of New Zealand to travel across the ocean. This practice relies on a deep understanding of the stars, ocean currents, and bird behavior. Māori navigators, known as tohunga, would use these natural signs to guide their canoes, or waka, on long voyages.
The art of Māori navigation is closely linked to their cultural heritage and identity. It involves not only practical skills but also storytelling and knowledge passed down through generations. This navigation technique showcases the Māori's profound connection to the sea and their ancestral lands.