MYSTERY OF OLD HISTORICAL N.Z. OBJECTS REMAIN

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 14, Issue 92, 1 February 1950, Page 7

MYSTERY OF OLD HISTORICAL N.Z. OBJECTS REMAIN

One of the most puzzling and mysterious objects in New Zealand history is the Korotangi, the origin of which has kept scientists guessing for half a century or more. This representation in stone of a bird, so sacred to the Waikato Maoris, is believed by them to have been brought to this country in their ancestral canoe Tainui, the 600th anniversary of the landing of this canoe was recently celebrated in the Bay of Plenty at Te Kaha. Not Polynesian Its origin, however, is certainly not Polynesian. The Korotangi has been placed on loan to the Dominion Museum along with other historical New Zealand objects. Also on view is the equally renowned Tamil bell, which was found by the Rev. W. Colsenso last century,- and likewise presents a problem as to how it came to New Zealand. One possible explanation is that it was obtained from a vessel of Eastern origin which still lies buried in sand on the West Coast of the North Island. The historical collection now displayed includes an ancient Spanish helmet which was retrieved from Wellington harbour many years ago, also portion of the armour once worn by Titore, a Ngapuhi chief. Maori Portraits The museum has a collection of original Maori portraits, including studies of Te Rauparaha and members of his family, that are exceedingly valuable. There are other Maori portraits in the possession of Maori families which, it is hoped, will augment, the museum’s special display later in the year.