Date: 24 December 2024 

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua expresses deep sadness and disappointment at the recent vandalism of pou whenua along the Abel Tasman Coast Track in The Top of The South. These taonga of immense cultural and historical significance have been desecrated in a senseless act that has sparked disappointment among the local Haukainga.

Pou whenua serve as markers of identity and connection, signifying places of importance to Māori and their whakapapa. The damaged pou, located at Medlands Beach near Bark Bay and at Marahau, hold profound meaning for mana whenua and the wider community.

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua stands in solidarity with haukainga supports the dismay to this vandalism. These actions are an attack not just on physical objects, but on our culture, history, and identity.

The first pou, representing Hohāia Rangiāuru, a revered Te Ātiawa chief, suffered severe physical damage, while the second Tana Pukekōhatu, a revered Ngāti Rārua chief, was defaced with paint. These acts of destruction demonstrate a lack of respect for the rich history and values these pou embody.

Working Together to Respond

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua acknowledges the swift action by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and NZ Police to investigate this incident and ensure those responsible are held accountable. We echo the call for anyone with information to contact DOC or the Police to assist with their inquiries.

DOC has closed the affected sites to protect the integrity of the remaining pou and ensure safety while discussions with mana whenua regarding replacement and protection measures take place.

A rāhui will be laid over the vandalised sites, marking them as tapu until appropriate ceremonies and blessings can restore their mana.

A Call for Respect

We remind all who walk this whenua to approach these sites with respect and an understanding of their cultural importance. Acts like these are deeply hurtful and undermine efforts to share the stories and legacy of Aotearoa’s tangata whenua with the world.

We support collaborative leadership in this matter and stand ready to assist in the protection of all pou whenua in the National Park, ensuring that such acts of desecration are not repeated.

If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact NZ Police on 105 and cite case number 241223/3689 or call the DOC hotline at 0800 362 468.

For Media Enquiries:
Contact: Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua
Email: shane.graham@ngatirarua.iwi.nz

ENDS