Pacific Blue Foundation wanted to generate a greater awareness and gain support for preserving the sailing skills and boating skills of the camakau. The event, Veitau Waqa – the Boat Lives, was put on in order to call attention to the long held boating tradition that has been passed down through many generations on Vulaga Island and Moce Island, Lau.

On August 27th, 2010, there was another Veitau Waqa- The Boat Lives event – an exciting sequel that took place during the Vodafone Fiji Hibiscus 2010 Festival in Suva. The event was open to the public.

Below, Veitau Waqa, is reported in the news.

Aim of the Event:

Veitau Waqa – The Boat Lives is put on to showcase traditional Fijian boat building and sailing skills of the camakau. The support gained from the public, businesses, and the government will help promote the reintroduction of these vessels into Fijian communities and ecotourism.

Additional Information

The Institute of Indigenous Language & Culture (IILC), at the Ministry of Fijian Affairs, is a partner with Pacific Blue Foundation. IILC Director Ro MisiwainiQereqeretabua wrote to us of our endeavours:

“The ‘Veitauwaqa’ event encapsulates the entirety of traditional art & craft for it provides the wonderful opportunity for indigenous Fijians and the multicultural society in Fiji to witness once more the ingenuity and grace behind the construction and sailing of traditional canoes. The IILC wishes Pacific Blue Foundation the very best in its efforts and looks forward to a continued working relationship in years to come.”

Co-Sponsors

Ministry for Indigenous Affairs, Dr Paul Geraghty (USP), Fiji Arts Council, Hibiscus Event Group

An Official Pacific Blue Foundation Event at the Vodafone Fiji Hibiscus 2010 Festival