I reflected on the vaka itself being a symbol to help us remember that before there were any borders and territorial lines that carved up the Pacific by colonial powers, it was vaka that helped keep and maintain our connections throughout all of Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa. It was on vaka that our Pacific ancestors voyaged back and forth across the vast Pacific Ocean, unhindered by the so-called borders and territorial lines as they visited different islands, along with coming here to Aotearoa. Their skill was based on knowledge of the stars, sailing directions, and reading the waves and clouds to determine currents and to predict weather. They were deeply imbedded into their environment. I like to think that we, the descendants of those early navigators, can draw on their prowess and commitment as we navigate the myriad of issues relating to climate change.