Relationship celebrated
Tauhei Marae recently hosted the Friends of Pukemokemoke Trust to mark the successful partnership between the trust and local iwi. Alan Leadley gives his impression of a special day.
As the Good Book says, “it is more blessed to give than to receive”.
This bible text was quoted by the chair of the Pukemokemoke Bush Reserve Trust as he spoke on Tauhei Marae on Sunday 18 November.
Dr Warwick Silvester was replying at the powhiri and thanked the Ngati Wairere of Tauhei giving the care of Pukemokemoke bush to the David Johnstone Trust. The mana whenua remains with Tauhei, and it is the privilege of the Trust to develop this maunga, this treasure that is called Pukemokemoke.
David Johnstone gave the bush to the people of New Zealand to enjoy. Many volunteers have given their time and money to help develop the reserve.
Giving was the theme of the whole day, as Trust members and friends were afforded a heart-warming welcome onto the Marae and then given a veritable feast by the tangata whenua.
The rangatahi group called Nga Hau e Wha (From the Four Winds) entertained us all with lively and powerfully meaningful action waiata.
Present at the event were David Gibson, Jim Pene and George Hopa, members of the original Rahui/Reserve Management Committee of 1991.
We remembered those such as the late Trudie Lloyd and the Brook Des Forges who gave so much of their time to protect the forest.
And, overall, thanks was given to the Creator for papatuanuku (mother earth) and the mantle of trees, ferns and birds which adorn it.
Dear Alan and friends of Pukemokemoke.
Thanks for your wonderful input to the preservation of the reserve your dedication and friendship and our breaking bread together over that fantastic meal prepared by Ani & Merv Taylor and their busy elves who all assisted with the catering.
I have enjoyed being associated with Pukemokemoke through George & Jim and of course the good folk at Tauhei Marae and their neighbors.
I will continue to support George & Jim and the Pukemokemoke Trust & enjoy the beauty of the Pukemokemoke reserve & marvel at the work that has been achieved by everyone over the period of time.
Chris Webster
Well said, Chris. It is such a special place, and what wonderful people giving their time and energy.