Toka & Pouwhenua

Navigators Pouwhenua and Toka (Anchor Stone).  The toka representing the anchorage of Tauranga Moana sits in the middle of a circular courtyard, surrounded by pouwhenua representing the waka of Takitimu, Tokomaru, Kurahaupo, Aotea, Tainui, Te Arawa and Mataatua. This is the site of the landing of the Takitimu waka and the first memorial in Aotearoa to recognise the kaihautu (navigators) of the voyaging waka during the great migrations from Hawai’iki (Raiatea).

Map No. 16.
86 Dive Crescent,
Tauranga, 3110.

At the end of Dive Crescent, below the harbour bridge flyover, a toka (anchor stone) representing the anchorage of Tauranga Moana sits in the middle of a circular courtyard, surrounded by pouwhenua representing the waka of Takitimu, Tokomaru, Kurahaupo, Aotea, Tainui, Te Arawa and Mataatua. This is the site of the landing of the Takitimu waka and the first memorial in Aotearoa to recognise the kaihautu (navigators) of the voyaging waka during the great migrations from Hawai’iki (Raiatea). These waka came by way of the sacred marae of Taputapuatea, where sacred rocks were placed to bear witness to their departure. Two stones from Taputapuatea were carried in each waka, transferring the mauri (life force) to its new home.