TALL SHIP FOR NORTHLAND YOUTH

Plans are underway for the building of a new 30m tall ship catering to training programmes for Northland youth.

The SV Kahu is the brainchild of a group of sailing enthusiasts, and has been designed by Whangarei-based naval architect, Erwin Haag.

Haag, who built a similar vessel 40 years ago, says the project will be run by the newly-formed Kahu Trust.

“We are passionate locals who want to make a difference to the children of Northland, offering a facility that promotes learning through the wind and sea by embracing the values of kaitiakitanga and guardianship.”

He believes there is a need to teach today’s children how to engage in the real world without the aid of computers and multimedia, and give them skills such as teamwork, balance, coordination and accountability. “These skills are not being taught in school – and not so much by parents anymore.”

The steel hull is to be built in a Whangarei shipyard, and Haag says a number of local businesses have already pledged support in the form of materials. Fitting out the ship will be carried out by local craftsmen and tradesmen supervising and using the skills of young people.

“We want those involved in the project to be able to learn a trade and come out with a NZQA qualification, leading on to apprenticeships within the trade.”

With careful planning and purchasing, he estimates the vessel can be built for around $2 million. The SV Kahu will be moored near the new Te Matau Pohe bridge.

“For a ship to perform well she must have order, discipline and the full cooperation of its crew. The ship, with the absence of daily clutter and distraction and the vastness of the open sea, provides an invaluable setting for those aboard to reflect on the personal choices.”