'Hikoi of History' Kicks Off Celebrations

New Zealand Historic Places Trust Information release
7 February 2006

A 'hikoi of history' will be the perfect curtain raiser for Waitangi Celebrations at the Hokianga on February 12.

A large group of local young people will accompany trustees of the Horeke Development Trust in a trek that will take them from Waimate to Horeke over several days as a lead-up to the Hokianga Waitangi celebrations.

"We'll be walking from Waimate to Horeke, camping overnight at Puketi Forest, and continuing on to Rangiahua," says organizer and Secretary of the Horeke Development Trust, Ray Pomare.

"Our journey will focus on the Ngapuhi chiefs Patuone and Waka Nene, and the influence they had both with William Hobson and Maori at the time of the Treaty signing at Mangungu."

While at Rangiahua, the children and trustees will give the plaque and monument marking the site of Baron Charles De Thierry's house a spruce up, while also learning about the colourful antics of De Thierry, who had designs on establishing himself as a 'Sovereign Chief' based in the Hokianga.

"This area certainly has a rich history, and many of the key historical 'players' at the time of the Treaty are more than just abstract historical figures - they are the tupuna of many of us taking part in the hikoi," says Ray.

"For us, the Treaty celebrations centering around Mangungu provide a wonderful opportunity to talk about our history with our young people in a way that engages their interest and brings it to life."

Local MP Shane Jones will join the hikoi on the morning of February 12 as it heads towards Mangungu Mission, and is enthusiastic about the celebrations which will include the opportunity for visitors to sign a commemoration book on the table that was used in the original Treaty signing at Mangungu.

"I'm looking forward to what I'm sure will be a very positive celebration of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in the Hokianga which will involve the whole community," says Mr Jones.

"I'm particularly excited about the opportunities the commemoration provides for encouraging an appreciation of local history in the community, and among young people in particular."

The celebrations will commemorate the third and largest signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, which took place on February 12th in 1840 at the Mangungu Mission House, a New Zealand Historic Places Trust property.

The New Zealand Historic Places Trust - Pouhere Taonga is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Media Contact: Ray Pomare - Ph 09 401-9767