KATI MAMOE MERE POUNAMU

This weapon is shaped in a style unique to Kati Mamoe of Mulihiku and honours Te Rakitauneke, from whom the source of this stone, Ka Umu o Hapopo, takes it's name.

Hapopo was a Ruanuku of Kati Wairaki living at a bay slightly north of Piopiotahi, he was overcome by our tipuna, Te Rakitauneke, who was also a tohunga of great power. This was achieved by whakanoa, secretly casting cooked fern roots onto the roof of his house. Attended by the taniwha Matamata and Tunuiateika, on three separate occasions Te Rakitauneke was killed and the atua raised him from the dead. The third time at Ka Umu o Hapopo, where a Wairaki toki Pounamu pierced his skull.

The piece is approximately 34cm long, corded with dressed muka.