June 14, 2013
Hook maker remembered in bridge
Posted On June 14, 2013
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www.whangareimarina.com
The rangatira who welcomed the first English settlers to Whangarei is to be remembered in the name of the city’s newest bridge.
Whangarei District Council’s infrastructure and services committee has decided to call the bridge over the lower Hatea River 'Te Matau a Pohe' or 'The Fish Hook of Pohe'.
Kaumatua from local iwi suggested the name as a way to recognize Wiremu Pohe, a Ngati Kahu chief who was also known for his skill in making hooks.
Bridge architect Martin Knight says he was inspired by the shape of Maori fish hooks when designing the bridge.