MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 8 June 1939, Page 11

MAORI MEMORIES

WHY THEY CUT THE FLAG STAFF, (Recorded by J.H.S. lor “Times-Age.”) Why was the flagstaff at Korora reka cut down? Many Maoris said it was erected as a rahui (a slur upon the village); some thought it was to guide ships inward, more thought it was to keep them out; still others declared it was the deadly sign that Wikitaria the Queen had annexed the North Island, including all their lands. One thing certain was they had less tobacco and blankets, and the ships were kept away. The Maoris and the pakeha traders were deeply depressed and all finally decided it was the Makutu (witchcraft) of the flag pole. Heke decided to cut it down, despite the grave risk of his being bewitched. * Customs duties were repealed; tobacco and other articles became more plentiful and were cheaper. Ships came and with them the fame and wisdom of Heke was established. The Governor was Pukuriri (swelling with anger), and ordered its re-erection. Again, Heke saved us from the curse of Makutu. Then the Governor brought many fighting men to put up a pole sheathed with iron, and to guard it. Heke thought of his dead relative Hongi Ika, and like him. became a man of renown. Fear came like a Kohu (fog) and none but Heke kept Maia (courage). Me called his people and spoke, “I will fight, I will cut the flagstaff. I will fulfil Hongi Ika’s last words. ‘All men are merely men.’ Soldiers are not gods, lead will kill them. If we are beaten it will be by brave men, and peed not be ashamed.” The Ngapuhi chiefs would not join Heke in the third attempt* to cut the flagstaff, but would await' the result, and if he succeded they would help.

Kawhiti (shining one) agreed to attack the town and divert the guards of the flagstaff while Heke and his men felled it.