Major Rapata's Flagstaff

The historic flagstaff of Major Rapata Wahawaha, paramount chief of Ngatiporou in Queen Victoria's day, was rededicated at an impressive ceremony on the marae at Kie Kie, Waipiro Bay, last month.

The 48ft totara staff was first erected in 1872 at Mataahu Point in the presence of 2000 people, and from it was flown an enormous flag presented by Queen Victoria as a symbol of the loyalty of the Maori people to the throne.

A few years later, the flagstaff was moved to Akuaku. Now it has come to Kie Kie.

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The picture at left shows Queen Victoria's flag unfurled from the flagstaff after the re-dedication ceremony.

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Mr A. B. Williams reading the final act of dedication, with the Rev. Te Wanoa, Ruatoria, and the Rev. K. Paenga, Tolaga Bay.

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The plaque at the base of the flagstaff.
(Pictures By Eastland Photographers)