June 19, 2018
Iwi farewells Tohunga Whakairo
One of Waikato Tainui’s most esteemed carvers will join his tipuna on Taupiri Maunga today.
Herekōtuku Leonard Muru of Ngāti Whatua and Waikato died on Saturday aged 81.
The former champion axeman was an exponent of the Waikato style, carving the history of the tribe and the Kīngitanga into the fabric of Tūrangawaewae Marae, Waahi Pa and other sites in the rohe.
One of his first major projects was working on the waka taua Tahere Tikitiki II in 1971 under the tutelage of master carver Piripi Poutapu,
He also carved many gifts for guests of the late Te Atairangi Kaahu.
The funeral service for Leo Muru is at Tūrangawaewae Marae in Ngāruawāhia at 11 this morning.
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