Getting to know the Makah Indian people and going to Disneyland were some of the highlights for students of Turakina Maori Girls College who toured the North-West United States last July.

Students and staff of the college had been invited to visit former school governor and Moderator of the Maori Presbyterian Synod, Rev Tame Takao, who is currently pastor at the remote Makah reservation at Neah Bay, in the north-west corner of Washington state.

Though they struggle to maintain their cultural strength and independence, the Makah people generously shared what they had, including their practice of hunting whales. The Turakina students reciprocated by offering a strong cultural performance. As a result of relationships built there, a Makah student will visit the Marton school late next year.

Another purpose of the trip was to meet with Rev Rob McLure and Rev Jack Wilson of the North West and Alaskan synod, who helped host and organise the trip. A visit to their Seattle office was followed by a performance at the high-profile Seattle Convention Centre, and a tour of rural towns south of the city.

A day of adventure rides and fun at Disneyland (L.A.) proved a very satisfying conclusion to a meaningful and worthwhile trip.