Eighteen pou, each representing an ancestor from marae around the Heretaunga district stand proudly in the centre of Hastings, presenting a tangible link to the region's cultural heritage.
For the first time in the history of the Hastings District, the presence of mana whenua can be seen in the form of carvings that represent tupuna, located in Civic Square in the centre of Hastings. Traditionally carved wooden posts, pou are artistically and elaborately carved to mark places of significance and acknowledge the association between the people (Tangata) and the land (Whenua). Open to the public, Nga Pou o Heretaunga have been carved from ancient totara trees by a team of 20 carvers and support crews over a span of 10 months. Each pou includes information on the whakapapa or genealogy of each marae, a full narrative about the ancestor, their past, present and futures connection with Heretaunga.
The pou are open to the public and can be viewed year-round in Civic Square, Hastings.
