I read a feature in the Press
a Southern Spotlight piece, no less
about a Maori tourist scheme
with waka travelling down the stream
the part that made me say aha!
the plan to build a Maori Pa
on land where hotel used to be
across the road just close by me
I thought that it would be so good
to have these neighbours in the hood
imagine living here among
a group who speak the Maori tongue
a chance to practise what I learn
this seemed to be a lucky turn.
I wanted details so I wrote
to ask about the Pa and boat
alas the answer when it came
just did not fit my dreamed-of frame
the idea had been simply floated
but proved impractical, they noted
the story that I read that day
was not quite what they meant to say
I guess that thus we must concede
you can’t believe all that you read!
Not a Pa site
Ruth's Reflections 
I suppose you cannot believe everything you read!
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Apparently not
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Great poem Ruth. Too bad about the Pa and boat.
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Thanks, Christi. It was a lovely idea.
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O to travel in a waka,
Hear a waiata on the water.
See nga rangitahi paddle
Young men’s strength,
Not just a dabble.
Makes a change from punts and stuff.
Boys with poles don’t look so tough.
I would rather see a moko,
Than an English lad, have a smoko!
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I think the punts must have their place
but waka might just win the race.
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Maybe the idea may float one day.
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It will, but it’s likely to be further downstream from us.
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I am disappointed. It would have added a bicultural dimension not always evident in the city redevelopment.
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I believe things are improving in most areas – just not quickly enough.
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I was taken in by that as well and looking forward to having a waka ride on the Avon.. Are they going to develop a site somewehere else
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There will definitely be waka rides on the Otakaro/Avon, from a base at the site of the old Oxford Tavern opposite the Town Hall.
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