These two extraordinary deities are responsible for being the footstool for all living beings. Papatūānuku and Ranginui made the sacrifice to no longer be in their embrace and allow the potential of life to take shape for all of their children and their descendants. They both give their energies to maintain a balanced life therefore it is our duty to take better care of their provisions. The infusion of female and male energy in all aspects of life will provide absolute positive productivity.

This design symbolises the protection of the whakapapa to Whenua and kaupapa. When Te Wharemate worked with The Crown and state representatives instigating and managing the growth of Pukepoto School located in the Far North,  whenua/land was gifted for the purpose of education, which was commonly used to attain whenua from Māori (Tuku Whenua). Te Wharemate answered this strategy with his own strategy and successfully defended his Whenua at a time when the Crown proposed to close the Kura/school. Similar to Te Wharemate’s story, ngā whānau o Ngā Puna O Waiōrea continue to protect land and assets of kaupapa for the interests of Ngā Puna O Waiōrea as a whole.

The presence of ancient knowledge in Polynesian sea voyaging was taught to only the strong passionate few who had the ability to cultivate these skills.Papa Mau Piailug, possibly the last skilled navigator of his kind to live in this era. Hekenukumai, Rangatira and Chief of Te Rarawa, or otherwise known by ‘Uncle Hector’ was one of the few that managed to obtain all of his learnings to the highest level; Whakatere waka. The hoe/paddle in hand makes reference to previous Ngā Puna O Waiōrea whānau whom have passed the hoe on to present whānau in order to lead Ngā Puna o Waiōrea Hapū and Kura into a successful future. In time, ngā whānau o Waiōrea will have the honour of passing the hoe on to future whānau.

This traditional northern pattern derives from the three guardian waves that accompanied Ngātokimatawhaorua Waka captained by Nukutawhiti. Hekenukumai was given responsibility of Ngātokimatawhaorua’s replica in Waitangi by well-respected kaumātua Tā James Henare. Hekenukumai upheld this responsibility until his passing in 2019.

It is said by noted Tā Moko/traditional Māori tattooist and Kaiwhakairo/carver exponents when you skin a Kīore/rat, this pattern can be found on the inside of its skin. The philosophy of kirikīore can be linked to speed as well as creative thinking to enhance the flow and momentum of various kaupapa. This is a visual manifestation of implementing a succession plan for future generations to come.