Story: First peoples in Māori tradition

Roadside Stories: Kupe in the Hokianga

Hokianga Harbour was the departure point of legendary Māori navigator Kupe when he returned to his homeland of Hawaiki. Kupe is said to have left behind two taniwha (water spirits), which guided later Polynesian arrivals to a safe landing.

Roadside Stories is a series of audio guides to places around New Zealand.

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Taonga puoro courtesy of Richard Nunns.

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How to cite this page:

Te Ahukaramū Charles Royal, 'First peoples in Māori tradition - Kupe', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/interactive/45050/roadside-stories-kupe-in-the-hokianga (accessed 28 March 2024)

Story by Te Ahukaramū Charles Royal, published 8 Feb 2005