Te Toka a Taiao

The Mataatua waka first landed at Te Toka a Taiao, which is sited opposite Turuturu Roimata (Statue Rock) at the Whakatāne river mouth. When the waka began to drift and was in danger of being swept onto the rocks, Wairaka uttered the famous words: “Kia Whakatāne ake au i ahau" – I shall act as a man.  

After the incident Toroa, Captain of the Mataatua decided to take the waka to calmer waters where it was secured at the rocks known as “Te Toka a Taiao”.  These are also referred to as “Te Punga o Mataatua” (the anchor stone of Mataatua).

Te Toka a Taiao remains an important landmark to Ngāti Awa and indeed all Mataatua iwi. The sacred reef lies in the river.