Discovering Polynesians Abroad-Aroha vs Aloha!
While traveling through New Zealand in June, I had the privilege of getting to know the indigenous Polynesians, The Maori’s. The first settlers came from Eastern Polynesia, as well as Hawaii – Hawaiki, in the 13th century; formed their independence and created their own language and culture. The ability to navigate such distances in ancient times was a remarkable accomplishment, relying on the sun, stars, ocean currents and wind patterns for thousands of years across thousands of miles of the open Pacific Ocean.
It was refreshing to see the distinct similarities and differences in language and appearance between the Maori’s and the Hawaiians. The 1st video performance below portrays the harmonic unison of such communities singing, whereas the 2nd performance portrays the tribal warrior in it’s refinement. Their ability to intimidate adversaries with The Haka – war dance, was second to none. And in some instances, prevented such battles from commencing.
I returned to Maui with a greater perspective on the common link many cultures have with one another due to foundations and a passion for discovery, evolving into countless microcosms that share a common ground, despite such changes and differences. In reality, we are part of the collective to continue learning from one another; to discover a deeper truth in order to shed the misperceptions that have plagued the planet for so long.
I hope you enjoy these cultural performances with a renewed perspective on Polynesian influence spanning thousands of miles today.
Inter-Island Adventures
This was an exceptional one week private excursion on both Maui and Kauai in July with Kerri, and her friends who joined us in Kauai. Kerri was a seasoned hiker and explorer who was up for the challenge. We navigated seamlessly from one day to the next with moderately challenging adventures in Maui, including a custom 8 mile hike into the West Maui Mountains, a Road to Hana tour, an 11 mile hike into Haleakala crater, to more challenging hikes in Kauai to Napali Coast with aerial views, then deep into the base of Waimea Canyon and River (it’s a red river!).
This experience was a major highlight in life, and want to thank Kerri for embracing each moment, remaining adaptable, helping each day go smoothly with continuity, and feeding me bursts of sugary delights! You can be my adventure partner anytime. And quite frankly, if you ever want to be a guide, you’re hired! And a shout out to Kerri’s friends, Lisa for going the distance with us in Kauai, and her husband for taking the incredible shots of us overlooking Napali Coast! It was an overall monumental success, and will be remembered for a lifetime…
