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This past October on Lifou, a traditional twin-hulled vessel was set afloat in the coastal lagoon – a small act that marked a highly meaningful moment.

It was the maiden journey of a traditional canoe on Lifou in generations, an gathering that united the island’s main family lineages in a uncommon display of togetherness.

Activist and sailor Aile Tikoure was behind the launch. For the previous eight-year period, he has led a initiative that seeks to restore traditional boat making in New Caledonia.

Many heritage vessels have been built in an effort designed to reconnect Indigenous Kanak people with their maritime heritage. Tikoure states the boats also promote the “start of conversation” around maritime entitlements and environmental policies.

Diplomatic Efforts

This past July, he journeyed to France and had discussions with President Emmanuel Macron, pushing for maritime regulations developed alongside and by local tribes that recognise their relationship with the sea.

“Previous generations always navigated the ocean. We forgot that knowledge for a period,” Tikoure says. “Currently we’re rediscovering it again.”

Traditional vessels hold significant historical importance in New Caledonia. They once symbolised travel, interaction and clan alliances across islands, but those traditions declined under colonial rule and missionary influences.

Heritage Restoration

His journey started in 2016, when the New Caledonia heritage ministry was looking at how to reintroduce heritage vessel construction methods. Tikoure partnered with the authorities and after two years the canoe construction project – known as Kenu Waan project – was launched.

“The biggest challenge wasn’t wood collection, it was convincing people,” he notes.

Project Achievements

The program sought to revive traditional navigation techniques, train young builders and use boat-building to strengthen traditional heritage and island partnerships.

So far, the group has produced an exhibition, issued a volume and facilitated the construction or restoration of around 30 canoes – from the southern region to Ponerihouen.

Material Advantages

In contrast to many other island territories where deforestation has diminished lumber availability, New Caledonia still has suitable wood for crafting substantial vessels.

“In other places, they often employ synthetic materials. Locally, we can still craft from natural timber,” he states. “It makes a crucial distinction.”

The vessels built under the initiative integrate oceanic vessel shapes with regional navigation methods.

Academic Integration

Starting recently, Tikoure has also been instructing navigation and heritage building techniques at the educational institution.

“It’s the first time these subjects are taught at advanced education. This isn’t academic – this is knowledge I’ve experienced. I’ve sailed vast distances on these vessels. I’ve cried tears of joy while accomplishing this.”

Pacific Partnerships

He voyaged with the members of the traditional boat, the heritage craft that sailed to Tonga for the regional gathering in 2024.

“Throughout the region, through various islands, it’s the same movement,” he says. “We’re reclaiming the sea as a community.”

Policy Advocacy

This past July, Tikoure travelled to the French city to present a “Kanak vision of the ocean” when he had discussions with Macron and government representatives.

In front of government and foreign officials, he pushed for shared maritime governance based on Kanak custom and local engagement.

“It’s essential to include them – especially those who live from fishing.”

Current Development

Today, when navigators from across the Pacific – from the Fijian islands, Micronesia and New Zealand – come to Lifou, they examine vessels together, modify the design and ultimately navigate in unison.

“We’re not simply replicating the old models, we enable their progression.”

Holistic Approach

For Tikoure, teaching navigation and supporting ecological regulations are linked.

“It’s all about how we involve people: who is entitled to move across the sea, and who determines what happens in these waters? Heritage boats function as a means to begin that dialogue.”