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Hinehopu Stand a while with me Beneath this mighty matai, Planted on this shadowed forest track By Hinehopu Four centuries ago. This was the spot on which She met her husband, Pikiao. For love of him she placed it here, And named it for herself. Custom says that those who pause Before this ancient tree— Make some small offering of greenery, And a prayer—will be guarded well Throughout their journey. Stand a while with me And see the reverent offerings Of our modern travellers. Broken beer bottles, Scraps of dirty paper, Empty packages, as empty As their hearts. — Joan Taylor.

Permanent link to this item

https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/periodicals/TAH196806.2.12

Bibliographic details

Te Ao Hou, June 1968, Page 18

Word Count
100

Hinehopu Te Ao Hou, June 1968, Page 18

Hinehopu Te Ao Hou, June 1968, Page 18