‘May calmness be widespread, may the ocean shimmer like greenstone, and may the shimmering light ever dance across your pathway.’
The Arahura River
‘Kia whakapapa pounamu te moana’ (May the ocean shimmer like greenstone)
The Arahura River, also called the Greenstone Waters, is cherished by the Māori for its abundant pounamu, or greenstone. This stone is used for making jewellery, tools, and weapons, and holds deep cultural significance.
Pounamu
According to Māori legend, the Pounamu people were known for their strength and resilience. They fled their enemies in Hawaiki on the Tairea canoe, but their journey was not without tragedy. The Tairea canoe was wrecked, turning the Pounamu people into Greenstone boulders. These boulders can still be found in the Arahura River, a testament to the Pounamu people’s courage and sacrifice.
In 2013, the South Island was officially named ‘Te Waipounamu,’ meaning ‘Greenstone Waters’ by observing its greenstone connection. It’s also called ‘Te Waka ā Māui,’ or ‘The Canoe of Māui,’ nodding to Māori mythology and adding to the region’s rich heritage.
A Sacred Mission:
On March 27th, six retired and active soldiers from the 2nd/1st Infantry Battalion set out on a mission to find four significant pounamu rocks from the Arahura River and Jade Creek. These rocks, symbolising the cardinal directions, were meant to honour all service personnel across Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Their goal was to present these revered stones to the Commanding Officer during the 2nd/1st Infantry Battalion’s 50th Birthday Celebrations at Burnham Military Camp in Christchurch, scheduled from June 28th to 30th.
Beyond simply finding and presenting the pounamu rocks, this mission held deeper significance—it was a spiritual pilgrimage, a sacred ritual honouring their fallen comrades. As one soldier eloquently expressed, the pounamu rocks, once touched, would embody aroha (love) and wairua (spirit), serving as tangible symbols of the profound connection and deep respect they held for their departed comrades.
The first day of their mission proved to be a true test of resilience as the soldiers faced fierce winds and driving rain, seemingly sent by the mighty Ranginui (Sky-father) and Tāwhirimātea (The Winds). However, as the days unfolded, they were graced with clear blue skies and the comforting warmth of Tamanuiterā (The Sun), which illuminated their path and guided them forward.
Māori Karakia.
Before embarking on each day’s journey, the soldiers paused to perform a traditional Māori karakia (prayer), seeking the blessings and protection of the spiritual entities. This sacred ritual was essential in setting the tone for their expedition, forging a deep spiritual connection, and imbuing their mission with profound significance.
Unified by their shared military experience and deep camaraderie, the group ventured through rugged terrain, relying on their combined skills and instincts to locate the cherished pounamu rocks. Along the way, they faced daunting challenges, navigating through ‘gnarly’ terrain that tested their physical and mental resilience. However, their resolute determination and unwavering perseverance, fortified by their strong sense of unity, ultimately led to success.
In reflection on their journey, let this Whakataukī, (proverb), resonate as a testament to the power of unity in achieving a common goal:
‘Kia hora te marino, kia whakapapa pounamu te moana, kia tere te kārohirohi i mua i tōu huarahi.’
‘May calmness be widespread, may the ocean shimmer like greenstone, and may the shimmering light ever dance across your pathway.’
By Tamaterangi Andrew – Wellington
