Empowering our tamariki means teaching ourselves

Growing up in the city, the idea of becoming a freediving instructor seemed far-fetched — an endeavour reserved for others. Yet, at the age of 34, equipped with a newfound instructor's qualification and an abundance of knowledge, I stand ready to make a difference.

This past summer, I had the privilege of supporting our rangatahi in their freediving journeys, witnessing their first dives and their exhilarating moments of spearing their first fish.

These experiences have affirmed that the true joy of being an instructor lies in sharing knowledge, empowering the next generation with the safest practices. Witnessing the sheer delight on a child's face after their successful dive or catch is just the beginning—the gateway to a deep learning experience that encompasses the entire process, from gutting to filleting to cooking. Here, we recount one such remarkable story…

A Day of Adventure

A day of adventure unfolded as we set off on a ‘friends and whānau’ outing aboard the mussel barge, armed with our dive gear.
The opportunity to dive presented itself during our fishing endeavours. Leah, a newcomer to the sport, bravely ventured into the water alongside her friend Billie-Mya, who possessed some prior diving and spearfishing experience.

The sun's rays danced through the mussel lines, casting a magical display of light as fish darted between ropes. Within the sheltered haven of the mussel floats and lines, schools of parore—often underestimated but delectable fish—swam enticingly. It was the ideal starting point for Leah.

My rule was clear: if you shoot it, you eat it. We observed the parore's movements, teaching Leah the art of selecting the right moment to take a shot. Her enthusiasm and natural aptitude were evident as she quickly absorbed the skills. After ample practice duck diving with an unloaded speargun, it was time for the hunt.

Within the sheltered haven of the mussel floats and lines, schools of parore—often underestimated but delectable fish—swam enticingly

Leah exhibited remarkable restraint, refraining from taking shots unless she was certain of a clean hit. Her maturity and respect for the underwater environment shone through, leaving a lasting impression. Finally, the perfect opportunity arose, and Leah fired, successfully spearing her first fish. It was a truly epic moment, and the journey had only just begun.

It was now Billie-Mya's turn, building on her existing skills. With confidence, she aimed and fired, securing her catch. These two young girls displayed exceptional talent in the water, their natural abilities combined with newfound skills providing dinner for the crew.

Lessons and Transformation

The learning experience continued beyond the waters. Back at home, the filleting workshop commenced.
With ease and enthusiasm, both girls mastered the tasks at hand, unafraid to get their hands dirty. Gutting, filleting, and skinning became second nature as they immersed themselves in the process. Leah embraced the role of chef, transforming the freshly filleted ika (fish) into a delectable feast. This remarkable achievement showcased the entire cycle—from hunting to preparation, cooking, and, of course, savouring the meal.

A Thriving Passion

Leah's journey had only just begun, and her passion for spearfishing grew exponentially. With the school holidays providing ample opportunity, she joined Julian and his son Reef on their boat a few days later.

This oceanic duo, well-versed in the ways of the sea, imparted their wisdom to Leah, fostering a camaraderie built on shared experiences. The text message that arrived later took my breath away—a photo of Leah, a wahine toa triumphantly displaying a kahawai and a pink maomao, a testament to her newfound skills and determination. With each adventure, she becomes better equipped and more eager for the next mission, and I am thrilled to witness her flourishing in this realm.

The Responsibility of Knowledge

Passing on knowledge to the next generation and ensuring safe access to the moana is an unparalleled joy. However, how can we expect to teach our tamariki if we ourselves lack the necessary skills?

The realm of freediving and kaimoana gathering is both beautiful and perilous without proper training. While traditional teachings may hold value, an alarming trend has emerged—an increasing number of people engaging in risky practices without adequate training, often resulting in dangerous situations.
Refreshing and expanding our skill sets should be a point of pride, not shame. As adults, we bear the responsibility of acquiring the best possible skills, not only for our safety but also for the well-being of our tamariki and mokopuna.

Seeking guidance from professionals, enrolling in courses, or joining clubs are effective ways to ensure access to accurate and vital information. With this power the opportunity to leave the moana in the trusted guardianship of a strong and wise new generation is in our hands.
Editor’s note:

Renee Taylor is the founder of Salt Aotearoa.

Salt Aotearoa offers community, training and support for wāhine exploring the moana in a safe and respectful environment.

Visit SaltAotearoa.co.nz to learn more.

Email Kiaora@saltaotearoa.co.nz to connect.