December 18, 2023
Poua te Ahi Memorial and Hikoi: Honoring Ngāti Hikitanga’s Resilience and Fight for Recognition
MEDIA RELEASE: Poua te Ahi Memorial and Hikoi: Honoring Ngāti Hikitanga’s Resilience and Fight for Recognition
Levin, New Zealand – December 17, 2023 – On Saturday, December 16th, Ngāti Hikitanga hosted the inaugural Poua te Ahi memorial and hikoi to commemorate the 150th anniversary of a tragic event in their history. Over 100 members of Ngati Hikitanga, Ngati Pareraukawa, and other Ngati Huia tribe members came together to remember the devastating events of December 13th, 1873, when their tūpuna (ancestors) were unjustly displaced and their homes destroyed by fire.
The day commenced at 5:30 am with a karakia and mihi at Levin Adventure Park, where the Ngāti Hikitanga ‘hikoi’ officially began, covering a distance of approximately 6.2 kilometers to Māhoenui. The journey symbolized the historical migration of Te Rauparaha and the invitation extended to Ngāti Raukawa to join him in the southern coast of Te Ika ā Mauī.
Upon arrival at Māhoenui at 7:30 am, the participants paused to acknowledge the significance of the site with a solemn karakia service. Rangatira Larry Parr, representing Ngati Hikitanga, expressed gratitude for the support received from the community and emphasized the importance of remembering the past while advocating for the recognition of Ngati Hikitanga hapu and Ngati Huia iwi as mana whenua within Horowhenua.
The hikoi continued with a departure from Māhoenui at 8:30 am, moving in vehicles to Ngatokowaru Marae in Hokio.. At 10:00 am, participants gathered for a brunch, fostering a sense of community and unity.
Post-event, Rangatira Larry Parr deemed the day a success, acknowledging the strong community support and emphasizing the ongoing battle for recognition. Despite the success of the event, the struggle continues until the Crown and local government acknowledge historical wrongdoing and engage in meaningful dialogue with Ngati Hikitanga.
Ngati Huia Rangatira and District Councillor Justin Tamihana expressed his pride in seeing Ngati Huia unite in support, acknowledging the significance of the day while recognizing the challenges ahead. Organizers Quentin and Victoria Parr extended their gratitude to all attendees and supporters, highlighting the contributions of Pakake Winiata for leading the karakia, Ngatokowaru Marae for the hakari, and Kikopiri Marae for accommodation.
The Poua te Ahi memorial and hikoi marks the beginning of an annual tradition, with organizers expressing optimism that the event will grow and strengthen in the years to come. As Ngati Hikitanga continues its journey to reclaim its rightful place, the expectation is that Poua te Ahi will serve as a poignant reminder of resilience and a call for justice.