Free build a wa‘a model event this weekend at Kaua’i Ocean Discovery

In celebration of the traditional Polynesian voyaging canoe Hōkūleʻa’s Moananuiākea voyage around the Pacific Ocean, a free wa’a (canoe) model building event is planned for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 14 at Kaua‘i Ocean Discovery, located at Kukui Grove Center, located at 3-2600 Kaumualiʻi Highway in Līhuʻe.

The make-and-take activity is open to all ages. No registration is required.

Participants will sand, decorate, assemble and float their wooden wa’a models at activity stations outside Kaua`i Ocean Discovery. Inside, a star compass is laid out to better understand wayfinding and navigation without modern instruments.

This event is sponsored by longtime maritime educator Kapena Steve Soltysik of Līhuʻe, who has crewed aboard the Hōkūleʻa support vessel during the vessel’s previous worldwide voyage.

For more information or questions, email to Jean.Souza@noaa.gov.