THE CAMP OF THE GODS.

Dominion, Volume 1, Issue 62, 6 December 1907, Page 5

THE CAMP OF THE GODS.

.■ ■'■ TO BE SEARCHED FOR. In Maori mythological history, writes our Wairarapa correspondent, there is reforeuco to Rau-Kau-Moaha, a great god, who acted as a sort of winged transporti. between the North and Srir.th Islands. The writer is not corfain that Bau-Kau-Moana ran his aerial service only between the North and South Islands—it might have been between tho South Polo and Cape Maria van Diomen, but thoro is absolutely no doubt, according: to Maori tradition, that there was a service whichwas controilod by this particular god. Rau-Kau-Moana sometimes did the trip by himself—presumably when he was attempting records—but more often ho carried weight in tho' .porson-bf- some unfortunate individual who. wished, to- escape the cannibalistic frailtios bf his victorious enemies. On tho journeys up tho Wairarapa, Itau-Kau-Moana frequently put up in the vicinity of Pahiatua, hence.the name Pahi (camphor home), Atua (god). It is believed that tho resting- place was a little hill near Konini (overlooking' the presont town of Pahiatua), after which Rau-Kau-Moana and his living freight descended into .a cave,- where no doubt they had refreshments.- The cave is said'to lie in a portion of tho scenic reserve, and tho GoveriiniontvDepartment interested has decided to institute a search 'for , the historic spot.' Mr J. B. Sutherland, Crown Lands Ranger, will therefore visit Pahiatua next week in order to ! ascertain- if thero is any connecting link Geographically between tho aerial navigation ot, Rau-kau-Moana and the present day. The result'will bo awaited with interest by all students of Maorj lore.