June 28, 2017
Apology due for Rua Kenana arrest
Descendants of Rua Kenana are preparing to receive a crown apology for the wrongs done to the Tuhoe prophet and his followers from his arrest at Maungapohatu in 1916.
Maungapohatu Ahu Whenua Trust manager Richard Tumarae says the wording of the apology and the date in August for its delivery are still being negotiated.
The apology is likely to be similar to that given to the Mokomoko whanau, which acknowledged the restoration of the mana, character and reputation of their ancestor.
Mr Tumarae says it’s part of a drive to acknowledge the contribution of Kenana and restore the remote Urewera community he established.
"It’s a huge step forward us. Maungapohatu has been in decline for some time and with some recognition of what's ahead of us by the crown can only help what's possible," he says.
Richard Tumarae says a group from Maungapohatu attended this month’s apology ceremony at Parihaka, and they were struck by the alignment of Rua Kenana with other Maori prophets and the violence of the crown reaction to them.
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