The PouPou Tane Hiira, Pou Karanga pole was carved in 1986 by Maori artist Tupari TeWhata. It is 4.0m (13′) high and stands on Kenneth Street between Canada Avenue and Craig Street in downtown Duncan.
The name of the pole translates from Maori as “The Welcoming Pole of the King of the Cedar Forest.” The Maori word PouPou means “carved post.”
This pole consists of two figures: Te Anhio Whio (top figure) and Tane Hiira – the King of the Forest (bottom figure).
Carver Tupari TeWhata describes the meaning of PouPou Tane Hiira, Pou Karanga as:
“Te Anhio Whio(the top figure) is calling out over the forest with a flute…he was bringing them all in tune to the sound of the forest, the deforestation….he was saying to Tane Hiira (the bottom figure) that we ned to do something about it…in a quiet protest way. Tane Hiira’s tongue tells us he is a great orator of wit, comedy and knowledge. The tongue tells us of a man’s status, character and talents. The pendant in the shape of a fish hook is a good luck charm. The meremere (club) was a close combat weapon; it is now used in our dances to welcome other tribes, people and dignitaries. Three fingers signifies three baskets of knowledge: etiquette and protocol; creating of Heaven and Earth; spiritual knowledge. The size of his hand and fingers signifies strength.”
“Tane Hiira’s tongue tells us he is a great orator of wit, comedy and knowledge. The tongue tells us of a man’s status, character and talents. The pendant in the shape of a fish hook is a good luck charm.” – carver Te Anhio Whio.
“…Three fingers signifies three baskets of knowledge: etiquette and protocol; creating of Heaven and Earth; spiritual knowledge. The size of his hand and fingers signifies strength.” – carver Te Anhio Whio.
