Te Pou Waimeha unveiled
A new pou stands on the Waimea Estuary.
Ngāti Rārua and other mana whenua iwi supported the dawn unveiling of a new pou on the Waimea Estuary near the airport in Whakatū on Friday.
Designed by Ruihana Smith, this pou symbolises the significant elements of Waimeha.
Mahinga kai is represented through the tuna (eels) and pātiki (flounder), depicted within the diamond forms. The migration of the kuaka is also acknowledged, reflecting the movement and seasonal rhythms that shape this place.
The primary kōwhaiwhai pattern incorporates the mangōpare motif, representing the hammerhead shark and symbolising strength and resilience.
The converging mangōpare koru forms express the meeting of fresh and salt water at Waimeha, the mingling of river and sea, mahinga kai.
