Āhea | When 8 Sept 2023 - Jan 2024
Ki hea | Where 115 Manners Street | View on Google Maps
Te utu | Cost Free
The latest animation “Heke ki Ponekeneke” by artists Tom Trengrove and David Hakaraia (Ngati Paoa & Ngapuhi) is based on the pūrākau (Māori myths and legends) retold by Toa Waaka.
It shows the story of Ngāti Toa, Te Āti Awa, and their allies, on their migration down to Te Whanganui-a-Tara, and the series of battles that reshaped the region's power dynamics.
The story begins with Te Rauparaha's quest to secure Kapiti Island. Te Pēhi Kupe ultimately leads the charge, solidifying Ngāti Toa's stronghold on Kapiti. However, the battles culminate in the epic Battle of Waiorua, where the sheer number of invaders almost bridges the gap between Kapiti and the mainland.
Ngāti Toa's strategic prowess, unity, and determination ultimately triumph, securing their position in the region.
This historical account highlights the resilience and strategic brilliance of these indigenous tribes, forging a legacy that continues to shape the identity of the region now known as Pōneke (Wellington).
The rich cultural history, marked by both conflict and cooperation, lays the foundation for the enduring connection between the indigenous people and the land they call home.