This is the story behind the four magnificent Maori carvings (tekoteko) which guard each entrance of Auckland’s Eden Park. Featuring Carvers Akatera (Katz) Maihi, Iwi Le Comte, Boydie Te Nahu, Albert Te Pou.
The figures represent: Tanemahuta – the spirit of the forest; Rongo – the god of peace; Tumatauenga – the god of war; and Tawhirimatea – the god of wind.
The creations were commissioned by the Eden Park Trust in conjunction with local iwi Ngati Whatua o Orakei.
Ngati Whatua o Orakei Maori Trust Board chairman Grant Hawke said the iwi is honoured to be involved with this project.
“As mana whenua for central Auckland we have a duty to offer manaaki (appropriate hospitality) and kaitiaki (protection) to visitors, Mr Hawke said.
“These magnificent tekoteko symbolise that guardianship and the place Maori have in Aotearoa.”
