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Download AudioA Taranaki tribal leader says the weekend’s visit to Parihaka by King Tuheitia was hugely significant for all iwi in Taranaki.
Dr Ruakere Hond says the hui was about strengthening the historic relationship stretching back to the peace between Taranaki and Waikato tribes forged in 1834 after the battle at Orangi Tuapeka by the man who became the first king, Pootatau Te Wherowhero.
He says there was discussion on how the tradition of Poukai held at around each Kiingitanga marae through the course of a year was matched by the hui held at Parihaka on the 18th and 19th of each month.
“The discussion around Poukai was very much around recognising the relationships that are already existing with certain Poukai such as in Kaawhia, the marae of Maketu and at Waipapa, and also relationships we have with other areas of whakapapa we have with Kiingitanga,” Dr Hond says.
As well a honouring the manuhiri, the hui was a valuable chance to bring all iwi in Taranaki together to discuss shared kaupapa.
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