To what extent are Koa canoes constructed and raced today?
The Hawaiian islands still maintain their loyalty to the construction of timber constructed canoes using the native Koa tree. The skill of canoe building from timber by the Kalai Wa’a (canoe builder), is a crucial element of Hawaiian culture and essential to maintain along with its ritual and ceremony. There are at least 100 Koa canoes in use, mainly for sprint racing. Koa canoes are raced as part of separate class of canoe and for many of the day to day races staged throughout the season, Koa canoes are the only type allowed. The Big Island of Hawai’i remains the major source of Koa. Here and on the island of Oahu, there are small workshops maintained and run by Kalai Wa’a (canoe builders) who perpetuate the skill of canoe building and repair work.
