The vessel name 'Tuhi-rapa' derives from the story of the well-known Ngāi Tai tupuna (ancestor) Manawatere who ventured from Hawaii to Aotearoa (New Zealand).
Upon his arrival in the rohe (regions), he rubbed karamea to mark various trees in and around the rohe. Karamea is a red ochre-coloured dye from the Pohutukawa tree. The tuhi, tohu, or hand mark helped the followers of Manawatere know where he had been so that they would not become lost.
Mā te tuhi rapa a Manawatere, ka kitea - Through the ochre-mark of Manawatere, you will see
In today's contect 'Tuhi-rapa' as the name for this vessel is a mark or symbol of the continuation of the traditional practice of the tupuna (ancestor) Manawatere. By taking people on board this vessel, they will discover and rapa (explore) the rohe (region) and gain a better understanding of our Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki history through our unique partnership with the company 'Explore'.
Groups & Private Charters:
Ask us for more details on chartering Tuhi-rapa for your next event. With capacity for 300 people, Tuhi-rapa provides the facilities and flexibility to suit your on-the-water group activity or event.
Highlights include:
- Spacious interiors across two levels with comfortable seating and large picture windows
- Large exterior spaces including roof deck for exceptional viewing opportunities
- Suitable to access a range of destinations within the Hauraki Gulf
- Fully licensed bar onboard with a variety of beverage and catering options available
- Full amenities including air conditioning, digital sound system, multiple TV screens, bike racks and toilet facilities
Vessel Specs:
- Location: Auckland
- Capacity: 300 pax
- Length: 95ft | 29m
- Amenities: Fully licensed bar | roof top deck | air conditioning | digital display and sound system | toilets
