Today we reached Aotearoa, New Zealand, the last full day of our incredible journey all the way from the Solomon Islands, a distance of over 2,000 miles. We have seen the range of cultures present on the many islands we visited, connecting the Melanesian and Polynesian people.
We visited the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, known as the founding place of the nation, and we experienced the pōwhiri (welcome) that starts in front of Te Whare Rūnanga. Afterward, we went inside for a cultural performance that included the waiata (songs), poi, and a traditional haka (war dance). After this performance we reciprocated by singing the traditional song E Toru Nga, an emotional and moving end to our journey.
