MAORI MEMORIES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 5 March 1940, Page 2

MAORI MEMORIES

MOUNT PIRONGIA. (Recorded by J.H.S. for “Times-Age.”) Its name (evil smelling) and its perfect cone rising 3.100 feet above sea level indicates its volcanic origin and that it was active within Maori memory. Smaller pointed cone-shaped mountains diverge North, South and West to a height of 2,000 feet, indicating that this was the greatest centre of volcanic activity in New Zealand. The effect and extent of the outbursts are seen in the light pumice soil stretching from sea to sea. Whangaroa harbour to the north and Kawhia harbour south. Mountains, ravines, precipices and rocky ranges in all directions, covered with scoria and pumice now converted to soil, give life to the splendid forest trees and masses of climbers which cover their tops in search for light, air and warmth.

Travellers who climbed to the peak of Pirongia in 1870 marvelled at the beauty of what lay below them at every stage of their journey. On the verge of small swamps and lakelets were giant rata trees 30 to 40 feel round the base, which were estimated to stand 100 feet high. Gazing in silent wonder at the vine-covered tree tops at their very feet, and looking through binoculars for 20 miles it seemed as though one might walk on them, high above the ground. Though now devastated by fires and the need for sustenance, the scene is unrivalled for beauty; but seldom mentioned in guide books.