The Hinemoana II, a waka hourua (double-hulled canoe), has announced Joelene Busby as the first female Māori captain to join its all-female crew. Busby joins Aunofo Havea, the first female Tongan captain, and Fani Bruun, the first female Samoan captain, highlighting Pacific women’s leadership in ocean exploration.
Busby brings over 20 years of experience and follows in the footsteps of her great-grandfather, Sir Hector Busby. “Our shared values encompass broader themes of ocean conservation and cultural heritage preservation,” Busby says.
Busby is also the founder of Tokanui Trust, dedicated to teaching traditional Māori knowledge. The Hinemoana II voyage aims to raise funds for humpback whale monitoring in Tonga, contributing to global ocean conservation efforts.
Busby reflects on the journey, “It’s a powerful movement… I feel blessed and honored to be a part of this kaupapa.” She adds, “The water is a medicine for my people, and I hope to open pathways for future generations.”
The voyage represents not only cultural exchange but also a commitment to protecting the Pacific Ocean’s resources.
