Model paopao (outrigger canoe)

This is a model paopao - a Samoan outrigger canoe carved from a single log. Paopao are the everyday workhorse of Samoan fishermen.

Usage
Paopao are used for fishing and food gathering around the edges of lagoons and estuaries, and for travelling short distances between coastal villages. They are inexpensive to make and easy to repair. Most are small in size and carry only one or two people. They are light and easy to carry to the water or stow away on shore.

Popular souvenirs
Since at least the 1880s, small models of paopao and other types of Samoan canoes have been a popular item made for sale to tourists. Over time they have varied intheir size and quality of manufacture. This model is part ofa collection of objects given to the National Museum by the Gisborne Art Museum and Gallery in 1975.