This piece serves as an acknowledgment of the growth and expansion of Ngapuhi, emanating from its heart, "Ko te manawa o te wheke" - the heart of the octopus (Kaikohe), extending throughout the motu.
Ahakoa, he rakau maori tenei, he pu te take.
Although the pouwhenua is a traditional weapon, the musket was the driving force behind the rapid growth—the reason Ngapuhi had an advantage over others. Therefore, this piece acknowledges a period of change and growth resulting from the acquisition of new technology. Na Te Wheke Pouwhenua.
Pouwhenua: Are long handled fighting staffs with one pointed end and the other shaped as a broad flat blade.
