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Story: Kōrero taiao – sayings from nature

Motu Kōkako – Hole in the Rock

Motu Kōkako – Hole in the Rock

Motu Kōkako (Hole in the Rock) in the Bay of Islands was said to be the landing place of the canoe Tūnui-a-rangi before it went to Ngunguru and Whāngārei. It brings to mind the saying 'Te toka tū moana' (the rock standing in the sea). This refers to a person who stands against all adversity, just as a rock resists the power of the sea.

About this item

GNS Science
Reference: CN9298/9
Photograph by Lloyd Homer

Permission of GNS Science must be obtained before any use of this image

How to cite this page:

Basil Keane. 'Kōrero taiao – sayings from nature', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, updated 25-Sep-11
URL: http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/korero-taiao-sayings-from-nature/2/1