The Return of the Pou: A Glimmer of Hope for Tangoio Marae

The Tangoio Marae, located north of Napier, has been plagued by Cyclone Gabrielle’s devastating effects two years ago. The marae suffered extensive damage, leaving its whānau without a place to hold tangihanga and express their tikanga. However, in a heartening turn of events, a carved pou from the marae has washed ashore on the Mahia Peninsula, sparking renewed hope for the community.

A Glimmer of Hope

The chairperson of Ngāti Kahungunu, Bayden Barber, expressed relief and gratitude upon discovering the pou. “It was found within our rohe, quite ironic that it was found up at Te Māhia in terms of our tīpuna Rongomaiwahine,” he said. The pou, carved by Kaumātua Bevan Taylor, holds significant cultural value for the whānau.

The Road to Rebuilding

The discovery of the pou is a welcome sight for Barber and the Tangoio community. However, it has also highlighted the progress that still needs to be made in rebuilding the marae. “It’s been a ‘slow burn recovery’ for Tangoio,” Barber noted. The whānau have faced numerous challenges, including finding safe and flood-free land.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the return of the pou, Barber expressed frustration with the slow pace of progress on rebuilding the marae. “There are challenges just finding land in their takiwā which is safe and flood free,” he said. The community needs a clear plan from the government to move forward.

A Message of Resilience

For Barber, the return of the pou serves as a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity. “He tohu o te ora, ahakoa ngā pēhitanga o te wā,” he said. This sign, regardless of challenges or setbacks, indicates that the whānau will persevere and remain committed to their marae for generations to come.

A Call for Action

As the government is approached for comment on the future of the Tangoio Marae, Barber emphasized the need for a clear plan. “It’s time to get the process to a point where whānau can see a light at the end of the tunnel at least,” he said.

A Glimmer of Hope

The return of the pou offers a glimmer of hope for the Tangoio Marae and its community. While progress has been slow, it is a sign that the whānau will not be deterred in their pursuit of rebuilding their marae. As Barber said, “We’re not going anywhere; we’ll be here for another thousand years plus.”