The north and south heads of the Hokianga carry the story of a Maori legend. According to Maori, the southern head is Arai-te-uru and the northern head is Niua. These are the names of two taniwha (sea-dwelling beings) that Kupe (founding ancestor of Aotearoa, New Zealand) placed here when he returned to his Pacific Island home, Hawaiki.
These taniwha guided the two waka (canoes) Ngatokimatawhaorua and Mamari, that Kupe sent back to Aotearoa, New Zealand. The assistance of the taniwha has often been called upon to ensure the safe passage for waka entering the harbour, and in war chants to lift the spirits of the warriors during battle.
The seas at the harbour entrance are renowned for the challenge they offer up to any vessel hoping to pass through, with swells often rough and unpredictable. In fact, several ships have been lost at the treacherous bar, approximately two miles out from the harbour entrance.
Arai-te-uru is said to be mother to eleven sons, all of whom have taken the form of a valley leading to the tidal stream.
The naming of Hokianga
The name ‘Hokianga’ commemorates Kupe’s homeward journey, and his farewell to Aotearoa, New Zealand:
“Hei konei ra it e puna i te ao marama, ka hoki nei ahau, e kore ano e hokianga-nui mai”.
“This is the spring of the world of light and I shall not return here again.”
Hokianga Harbour - through the trees - Credit: Blue Orb
3.25 Copyright (C) 2007 Alain Georgette / Copyright (C) 2006 Frantisek Hliva. All rights reserved."