HINEMOA AND TUTANEKAI by Ngahuia Gordon Ngahuia Gordon, aged 16, is a pupil at Western Heights High School, Rotorua. Only The seagull screams Across the sands in daylight, Sands softened by the quiet tramp Of white feet. But, in the frosty moonlight, Silver on the rippling waters, A figure steals silent To these sands. Slim, graceful as the gull, A maiden, body gleaming, Naked but for calabash, Lured by the soft music Of her bastard lover. Aue! Cold is te roto, cold, uninviting, black, treacherous, But strengthened With the fire of love. ‘I must press on.’ Slide Through a cloud: ‘Marama, Do not forsake me! I need your light. Indeed— Alas— The flute has failed.’ Persevere E Hinemoa. He will be there, A muscular body, Strong, soothing, to relieve at last Your tired flesh. ‘E Hine!’ Eyes meet In chilly moonbeams Now warmer, sweeter than a million Maori summers. United in a paradise Of earthy flavour But ethereal mood, the couple sleep In peace. No more shall lilt a theme of love Across the gentle waters of the lake. But one will always feel them, Even see them there. And hear Their hollow voices Past, but perpetual, Yet only misty memories— In a faded age— United in immortal love.