Hīkoi te Ara Whetū
Hīkoi Te Ara Whetū — dedicated to the memory of Ngāti Toa master carver Tana Salzmann, who now sits among the stars watching over us.
On Tuesday morning, we officially unveiled the stunning pou, now permanently installed at the Whitireia office, which tells a story of navigation, whakapapa, and reconnection.
Originally commissioned by Carter Observatory with support from Wellington City Council, the project was led by Wiremu Grace, with master carvers Hermann and Tana Salzmann, supported by Nathan Rei and Waiāriki Grace. The stone came from Ōamaru, the designs shaped through kōrero with Toa Waka, inspired by navigation and star constellations.
Intended to be housed inside the Observatory, the pou were displayed briefly at a Waka Hourua gathering in Wellington and blessed by Sir Hector Busby. But after a change in plans, they were placed in storage for 15 years.
Eventually, Wiremu was contacted about relocating them, and his response was clear: if they weren’t being used as intended, they should come home to Ngāti Toa. With support from the Rūnanga and funding to restore and relocate them, a new space was prepared — thanks to the efforts of Kauri Grace, Wairere Pene and the Tito Group.
Named Hīkoi te Ara Whetū by Uncle Taku, who also led the karakia, each pou represents key figures in navigation and storytelling:
Tāwhaki (North/front) ascended the heavens and retrieved three baskets of knowledge.
Māui (West/left) who feats pulling Te Ika-a-Maui from the sea and slowing the sun.
Niwareka & Mataora (South/back) descended into Rarohenga and returned with the gifts of Taa Moko and Te Wharepora.
Kupe (East/right) who in conquering Te Wheke o Muturangi, also conquered Te Moana nui ā kiwa.
Positioned facing true north, each Pou represents navigation and storytelling following the pathways of our ancestors.