Wayfinding at HYC

Over the past year, Hobsonville Yacht Club has had the privilege to host and support the Moana Wayfinders Trust’s Tagaloa Sailing Project. Led by Sonny Natianelu, the project is aimed at getting Pasifika people back out on the water and reclaiming their heritage of ocean-going and navigation.

Coaches Cohen, Sarah, and Zoey, with help from other club members, have been leading the group through sailing skills with an aim of having the students become the teachers. Once they feel prepared, the project participants will take a coaching course and contribute to the ongoing expansion of the kaupapa.

This write-up by Radio New Zealand is a fantastic intro to the project - here are some pictures from our many great sailing sessions in 2026!

Keelboat day aboard Jade River

A stunning early morning sail

Gill and Sonny with Roger Kitchen, creator of the Wētā trimaran

Gill learning about tradtional navigaton in the Pacific