Statue of Wairaka and Moutohorā (Whale Island)

Statue of Wairaka and Moutohorā (Whale Island)

In the foreground of this photograph is the rock Turuturu-Roimata, which is just off the coast from the landing place of the Mataatua canoe. The statue on top of the rock depicts Wairaka, the daughter of Toroa, captain of the canoe. When the canoe started drifting back out to sea she is said to have saved it by grabbing a paddle and crying out ‘Kia whakatāne au i ahau!’ (I will act like a man). This incident is said to be the origin of Whakatāne’s name. The island in the distance is Moutohorā or Whale Island, a volcanic island nine kilometres offshore, where Ngāti Awa traditionally collected tītī (mutton birds). Moutohorā is now a wildlife refuge.