The Māori were mastering open-ocean navigation long before compasses or charts existed. Reading the wind, waves, birds, clouds, and stars — with a level of precision we still struggle to comprehend. Very fortunate to have met a local Māori guide, Michelle, here in Napier. Her husband has actually sailed traditional waka — ancient-design vessels — across open oceans with no compass, no GPS, no charts, nothing modern. Mind-blowing knowledge. Grateful for the moment. 🌊✨ #Māori #Wayfinding #Polynes