Meaning and significance | Whakamāramatanga
The meaning and signficance of the two pou are described on plaques affixed to koowhatu (stones) located beside each piece.
The inscriptions on the plaques read:
The 2 Guardians
Tokorua Ngaa Kaitiaki
These artworks tell the shared story of migration and
settlement in this area by mana whenua. Installed
as kaitiaki (guardians) on either side of the awa,
the artworks act to both welcome and warn, those
heading to and from these waterways.
(Top)
Te Kaakano | The arrival
Represents arrival from afar, our connection to
the past, and the passing down of mana, mauri,
maatauranga and whakapapa. This top tiki plays a
traditional flute, which denotes the shared whakapapa
through its shared connection to the base tiki.
(Central)
Te Tupunga | Establishing roots
Represents the establishment of our unique culture
and Toi Maaori forms such as those connected to
Tangaroa and the origins of Whakairo Maori.
(Base)
Te Puaawaitanga | Mana whenua flourishing
The base tiki talks about Ahikaa - the resilience
and our continued presence of mana whenua. The
contemporary forms also talk about mana whenua as
innovators. The placement of this base tiki highlights
mana whenua as being connected to this area.
Te Aakitai Waiohua
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