TŪROU HAWAIKI
Tūrou parea, Tūrou Hawaiki.
May the ancient homeland of Hawaiki glisten on in mind's eye forever
Simply translated this whakatauki can be understood as ‘May the force be with you’. Or the full version is, "May the ancient homeland of Hawaiki glisten on in mind's eye forever".
The phrase "Tūrou Hawaiki" is commonly used as a kīwaha in everyday speech. Hawaiki is understood to be the place of origin for Māori.
In the Far North, we believe that when someone passes on their spirit goes to Rerenga Wairua (Cape Reinga) and enters Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa (Pacific Ocean) to travel back to Hawaiki.
This taonga reminds us of heritage, ancestry and identity.
AKE AKE AKE
Forever, and evermore.
This is a proclamation to state forever and evermore, or as long as it takes. More commonly you hear these words at the end of a karakia as an affirmation of unity and solidarity.
During the peaceful movement of Ihumatao in Tāmaki Makaurau this saying became infamous as a statement of protection against the development of the unique landscape. These kupu symbolise resilience, strength and determination.
This is also famously quoted by Waikato chief, Rewi Maniapoto, during the Battle of Orakau in 1864;
"Ka whawhai tonu mātou, ake ake ake!" – “We will fight on forever!”
Kupu hou:
whakatauki = proverb
kīwaha = colloquial saying, slang
tūpuna = ancestors
Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa = Pacific Ocean
taonga = precious, treasured, of great value
