Hawaiki is a mythical ancestral homeland in Polynesian mythology. It is often depicted as a place of abundance and perfection, and it is believed to be the origin point for many Polynesian peoples and their cultural practices, including the building and use of waka (canoes).
While Hawaiki's exact location remains debated, it is generally believed to be somewhere in the Pacific Ocean.
The story of the Mataatua Waka is a vital part of Maori oral tradition and tells of its journey from Hawaiki to Aotearoa (New Zealand). It's important to note that while the specific location of Hawaiki is debated, its significance within Maori culture is undeniable.