The Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia canoes arrived in New Zealand after a 17-day, instrument-free voyage from the Cook Islands, completing the 15th leg of the Moananuiākea Voyage.

The Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia canoes arrived in New Zealand’s Bay of Islands after a 17-day, 1,600-nautical-mile voyage from the Cook Islands, completing the 15th leg of the Moananuiākea Voyage. Navigated without modern instruments, the journey faced storms, cold waters, and cloud cover. The crew, including students from Kamehameha School, arrived ahead of schedule and will observe a sacred kapu period until November 14. Formal events include a pōwhiri, a carving unveiling honoring Ngāti Ruawāhia, and a tribute to key leaders. The canoes will remain in Aotearoa for about six months to avoid hurricane season before resuming the Pacific tour in 2026.