Migration & Settlement of Polynesia

The migration to Hawaii, Tahiti, and other Polynesian realms is a complex, fascinating story--combining archaeological and linguistic study (the transmission and change of key words from migrants' points of origin through migratory routes) as well as traditional Polynesian legends and myths.

 

The sites below will take you to organizations sponsoring the study of voyaging and settlement patterns. 

Maori Migration
Excellent site on Maori settlement and Maaori history.

Wayfinding in the Middle of the Pacific
Information on ancient Hawaiian navigation.

Ho'okahi 'Ohana, Ho'okahi Kai
A gallery and virtual exhibit of Polynesian voyaging canoes.

Introduction to the Hawai`iloa Exhibit 
Another exhibit of voyaging canoes and the recreation of voyaging technology.

Maui Nui Culture Links - POLYNESIAN VOYAGING
More on Polynesian migrations.

Hui O Wa`a Kaulua 
An organization "seeking to encourage, maintain, and perpetuate the building and sailing of authentic Hawaiian sailing canoes."

Polynesian Voyaging Society
An excellent, comprehensive site, providing legends, maps, image galleries, etc.
 

The essays below, written by Dennis Kawaharada, come from the above "Polynesian Voyaging Society" site.

    The Settlement of Polynesia, Part1

    The Settlement of Polynesia, Part2