Memorial to Māori Casualties, Taranaki Cathedral Church of St Mary (1972)

"Memorial to Maori People who Died in the Conflicts 1860-70."

A number of proposals had been made over the years to balance St Mary's traditional associations with Pākehā military - in the form of local colours (flags) and British regimental hatchments - with Māori as opposition in the conflict.

One such memorial was unveiled inside St Mary's Church, New Plymouth and dedicated on Sunday 24 September 1972 by His Excellency Sir Richard Wild (1912-1978), Acting Governor-General, the Honourable Duncan MacIntyre (1915-2001), Minister of Māori Affairs, and His Grace the Archbishop of New Zealand Reverend Allen Johnston (1912-2002).

The installation was designed and carvings executed by John Bevan Ford (1930-2005). It represents the traditional story of Takarangi of Puke Ariki pā and Raumahora from Whakarewa pā, Ōkato, whose marriage resulted in a lasting peace between Te Ātiawa and Taranaki iwi.

The panel on the left depicts Te Rangi Apiti Rua, ariki (chief) of Puke Ariki and Takarangi's father while the centre panel shows the two lovers Takarangi (top) and Raumahora (below) and the panel on the right  Raumahora's father Rangi Mohuta of Whakarewa. The figures on the base represent the two waka (canoes) of Tokomaru (Te Ātiawa) and Kurahaupo (Taranaki). The upper painted kowhaiwhai panels depict Taranaki Maunga in the centre with a superimposed cross.

The tukutuku (wall panel) work was completed by the women parishioners of St Mary's and the whāriki (harakeke mat) was gifted by the Māori Arts & Crafts Institute in Rotorua.

PLEASE NOTE: entry to St Mary's - renamed the Taranaki Cathedral Church of St Mary's in 2010 - is currently restricted while a programme of seismic strengthening is undertaken.

Related Documents

Love story in Māori carvings (Taranaki Herald 30 August 1972)

Unveiling and dedication of the memorial (Parish of St Mary New Plymouth 24 September 1972)