Luxury Golf & Travel To New Zealand
Luxury Golf & Travel To New Zealand
As you arrive at the golf course, who would have noticed the impressive Pouwhenua that welcomes you. We explore the storrey behind this carving…
The Powhenua, a towering Maori carving standing at 9 meters high, was commissioned in 2011 to mark a significant mile stone – the opening of the unique wildlife sanctuary within the Wairakei Golf Course. Crafted with meticulous detail from an ancient Totara log, is monumental piece of art serves as a cultural beacon at the entrance of the golf course.
The carving, a collaborative effort between local carvers from Wairakei Terraces and Tainui carvers affiliated with Ngati Tuwharetoa, is a masterpiece in Maori artistry. Designed by carver Wikuki Kingi, it features of symbolic representation of Tane Mahuta, the revered God of the forest, surrounded by a beautiful array of 30 native birds, intricately, perched on the vine of life that spirals up the pole. Crowning the pole is a majestic depiction of the extinct, New Zealand eagle, Hokioi, serving as a poignant reminder of the areas ecological history.
The creation of the Pouwhenua was not just an artistic endeavor, but also a deeply spiritual process. The Totara log used for the carving was sourced from an ancient tree in the Pureora forest, northwest of Taupo, and was blessed in accordance with Tuwharetoa protocol before being crafted into this magnificent sculpture. Carving process itself followed strict protocols, with ceremonies and rituals and sharing purity of mind and spirit among the carvers.
The Pouwhenua Stan’s is a testament to the rich, cultural tapestry and natural beauty that defines the Wairakei region, inviting visitors to appreciate, and respect that lands, history and significance.
