Tepuke Anchored at Luova, Lata, Ahead of Official Welcome and Journey to Honiara

By Alfred Pagepitu

The traditional voyaging canoe Tepuke has arrived at Luova Village, in Lata, Temotu Province marking a significant milestone in this year’s Wansolwara Voyage.

The canoe landed at 4 p.m. this afternoon, after stopping earlier at Matu Village to replenish local materials in preparation for the onward journey to Honiara tomorrow.

Matu Village is a historic departure and landing site for voyaging canoes and home to Polynesian settlers from the outer Veakau islands.

Earlier today, the Uto Ni Yalo canoe also reached Lata, bringing a regional crew from across Oceania.

The Uto Ni Yalo crews departed Fiji about eight days ago. Favorable weather allowed the canoes to berth safely around 10 a.m at Lata,  after which the crews underwent customs and biosecurity clearance.

Meanwhile, the Temotu Provincial Government and the Anglican Diocese of Temotu will be hosting a special dinner to honor the crews at the the Diocese of Temotu Conference Room this evening, celebrating Pacific heritage, unity, and ocean conservation.

Temotu Premier Hon. Stanley Tehiahua told SIBC News, “We welcome our voyaging brothers and celebrate the deep heritage of traditional navigation.”

He said the provincial government, together with the Diocese of Temotu, will host a welcome dinner to honor the crews and the important message they carry.

He added that both canoes will depart Lata tomorrow for Honiara in time for the 54th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting, scheduled for 8–12 September.

“Their journey not only showcases traditional navigation but also carries messages of peace, stewardship, and cultural pride.”

Premier Tehiahua highlighted that the arrival of Tepuke and Uto Ni Yalo is more than a sea voyage:

“We stand with our voyaging brothers and all stakeholders for the protection and conservation of the ocean, which supports livelihoods across our region.”

The crews are expected to reach Honiara before 8th September, allowing a day of rest before the Forum opens.

The Premier extended gratitude to communities, local leaders, and institutions who supported the voyage.

“We thank everyone for their support and encouragement along this journey. Today, we take pride in the flag of the Pacific and Solomon Islands, represented by our voyaging canoes Tepuke and Uto Ni Yalo.”

He also announced that the Commissioning and Sending-Off Service by the Diocesan Bishop will take place tomorrow.”

“Into God’s caring and protection hand, we entrust the traveling of the two Vaka to Honiara with the Wansolwara message to the PIF.”

SIBC News understands that the  Wansolwara Voyage highlights the rich cultural heritage, unity, and navigational skills of Solomon Islands and Oceania, linking traditional voyaging to contemporary regional diplomacy ahead of the PIF Leaders Meeting.

[ENDS]