RNZAF, RCAF P8 exchange opportunity for traditional welcomes
A number of Royal Canadian Air Force members on a recent international training in New Zealand had the opportunity to exchange cultural welcomes, along with professional expertise.
Representatives from both 14 and 19 Operations Support squadrons and 415 (Long Range Patrol Force Development) Squadron were in New Zealand for a “seasoning” exchange on the P8 aircraft, soon to replace the RCAF’s CP140 Aurora. The Royal New Zealand Air Force, a Canadian ally, hosted RCAF peers for demonstrations and presentations that will support the RCAF’s successful transition.
14 OSS Captain Melanie Rustenburg put forth the idea of sharing a smudging ceremony and a cultural exchange during the training visit. The members belonging to the Tūrangawaewae o Te Tauaarangi o Aotearoa at Base Ohakea were quick to respond, and a plan was put into place.
September 28, the RCAF visitors were welcomed into the RNZAF Tūrangawaewae with a traditional Māori welcoming ceremony, known as a pōwhiri. To their surprise and delight, RCAF members currently posted to RNZAF Ohakea for more in-depth P8 training were waiting and ready to welcome their fellow Canadians.
The pōwhiri welcoming ceremony included karanga, a ceremonial call performed by women, representing both the military hosts and visitors. During whakaeke, the visitors moved slowly toward and entered a gathering space. The formal whaikōrero speeches were given in Māori from the male leaders for both the side, followed by a song. The hongi, the pressing of noses, and harirū, the shaking of hands, uniting the hosts and visitors; was conducted.
Traditionally, the pōwhiri would then move on to the sharing of kai (food); however, this is when Rustenburg led a Canadian Indigenous smudging ceremony. She explained the elements and medicines involved in a smudge, and some information on her Dene traditions, where she grew up and her journey. The hosts and visitors gathered in circle and the smudging ceremony began, followed by sharing gratitude. The ceremony ended with an exchange of hugs as a reminder people are all interconnected, regardless of their differences.
During the smudging, one of the RCAF members posted in Ohakea said this was their first time participating in the ceremony – and they’d never have guessed it would happen so far from home.
Both parties then moved on to the final part of the welcome and greeting ceremonies and shared kai (food) and stories in more relaxed setting.
The cultural exchange was beyond anything Rustenburg could have imaged. She is, and will be forever, grateful to be able to wear the uniform while practicing and share her culture with others and other nations.
