Poupou unveiling a memorable day for the Hokianga
New Zealand Historic Places Trust Information Release
30 June 2008
The Hokianga community turned out in force on Sunday to mark the unveiling
of two poupou representing two prominent historical figures, James and
Jane Clendon.
Minister for Housing and Construction, Shane Jones, acknowledged the
significance of the Clendons to the history of the Hokianga as he officially
unveiled the two poupou, which were carved by local artist Nopera Pikari.
As well as marking an important historic union between two individuals,
he also acknowledged that the poupou represented an important historic
union between New Zealand's founding cultures.
James Clendon was a significant figure in the first powerful encounters
between Maori and Pakeha. His wife, Jane Clendon, was the daughter of
Dennis Browne Cochrane and Takotowi Te Whata of Mangamuka, who was connected
by whakapapa to notable whanau in the Hokianga.
Property Supervisor of the Historic Places Trust's Clendon House in Rawene,
Lindsay Charman, was delighted with the unveiling.
"It was humbling to have the support of so many people from Rawene
and other parts of the Hokianga. It was a great success," he says.
"At first light visitors were called along the waterfont to the
poupou where thjey were greeted with a rousing haka powhiri. After karakia
and blessing by our kaumatua, Horotai Tito, the large group - which included
Clendon and Cochrane descendants from around the country - enjoyed breakfast
together, and later took part in the unveiling. It was a memorable occasion
with every seat in the Rawene Town Hall taken for the korero and speeches."
The two poupou now stand at the Main entrance to Clendon House facing
the Hokianga Harbour.
"They look very much at home here," says Lindsay. "They
are significant works of Maori art and will help tell the story of some
of Hokianga's vibrant pioneer history"
"It's fitting that after all these years, visitors to Rawene will
again be welcomed to Clendon House by James and Jane Clendon."
For more information
Lindsay Charman
Property Supervisor - Clendon House
Ph 09 405 7874
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