As we turn a corner in our political and tribal history we tend to look back at our journey and wonder about the reactions of those no longer with us. ‘Hearty Natis’ like Tame and Whaea with heaps of humour kept a calming influence on everyone when our hui got rowdy and downright naughty. Since their passing we have undergone many fiery clashes where east won’t meet west (so to speak) and that’s not the south bank v north bank of the Waiapu.
Waho was another who would plough in and verbally sit everyone back. All were staunch orators who spoke out on a range of issues, some very entertaining moments were had across the rohe of Ngati Porou. All three wanted unity, (Kotahitanga), healthy whanau, healthy Iwi environment and a tribe of fluent speakers of te reo….Nati of course!
Then there were those in the background who did not profile often but were approached for their wisdom, temperament and historical knowledge. June (Hune) Fox was one of these mentors who was well versed in whakapapa and had a passion for land and farm management. A leader in the development of the Waiapu/Waiomatatini land blocks June was optimistic that in time Ngati Porou would come together work through those issues that didn’t always concur with ‘mainstream Nati’ and move past the grievance era. He felt so much energy was wasted during the struggle to settle outstanding issues of importance. Wasted in the sense that we did not come together during these discussions. June was supportive of all his whanau and they sat in two camps.
What would they say if they here today? Tame……kua ea! Whaea…….“please release me! Waho………….aha! I knew it!
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