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In October on Lifou island, a double-hulled canoe was set afloat in the lagoon – a simple gesture that represented a deeply symbolic moment.

It was the maiden journey of a heritage boat on Lifou in generations, an occasion that brought together the island’s three chiefly clans in a exceptional demonstration of solidarity.

Seafarer and campaigner Aile Tikoure was behind the launch. For the last eight years, he has spearheaded a program that works to resurrect ancestral vessel construction in New Caledonia.

Dozens of canoes have been crafted in an project aimed at reconnecting local Kanak populations with their oceanic traditions. Tikoure explains the boats also help the “opening of discussions” around maritime entitlements and ecological regulations.

Diplomatic Efforts

During the summer month of July, he visited France and met President Emmanuel Macron, advocating for marine policies created in consultation with and by native populations that honor their maritime heritage.

“Our ancestors always navigated the ocean. We lost that for a period,” Tikoure says. “Today we’re reclaiming it again.”

Heritage boats hold profound traditional meaning in New Caledonia. They once symbolised movement, interaction and tribal partnerships across islands, but those practices faded under colonisation and missionary influences.

Tradition Revival

His journey started in 2016, when the New Caledonia government’s culture department was looking at how to bring back heritage vessel construction methods. Tikoure partnered with the administration 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.

Initiative Accomplishments

The Kenu Waan project sought to revive heritage voyaging practices, educate new craftspeople and use boat-building to enhance traditional heritage and island partnerships.

Up to now, the team has produced an exhibition, published a book and enabled the building or renovation of approximately thirty vessels – from Goro to the northeastern coast.

Natural Resources

Unlike many other oceanic nations where deforestation has reduced lumber availability, New Caledonia still has appropriate timber for carving large hulls.

“There, they often employ modern composites. Locally, we can still work with whole trees,” he states. “That represents all the difference.”

The vessels constructed under the Kenu Waan Project merge oceanic vessel shapes with regional navigation methods.

Teaching Development

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

“For the first time ever this knowledge are included at graduate studies. It goes beyond textbooks – it’s something I’ve experienced. I’ve navigated major waters on these vessels. I’ve felt overwhelming happiness doing it.”

Regional Collaboration

Tikoure sailed with the members of the traditional boat, the Pacific vessel that journeyed to Tonga for the regional gathering in 2024.

“Across the Pacific, including our location, we’re part of a collective initiative,” he states. “We’re taking back the sea collectively.”

Political Engagement

During the summer, Tikoure travelled to the French city to present a “Traditional understanding of the sea” when he had discussions with Macron and government representatives.

Addressing official and foreign officials, he argued for cooperative sea policies based on Kanak custom and community involvement.

“You have to involve local populations – most importantly those who live from fishing.”

Contemporary Evolution

Currently, when navigators from various island nations – from Fiji, Micronesia and Aotearoa – visit Lifou, they study canoes together, modify the design and ultimately sail side by side.

“It’s not about duplicating the ancient designs, we help them develop.”

Integrated Mission

For Tikoure, educating sailors and supporting ecological regulations are linked.

“It’s all about community participation: what permissions exist to move across the sea, and who determines what happens in these waters? The canoe serve as a method to start that conversation.”