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Recording our histories, understanding our past, and connecting for our future.
Welcome to our online local history portal for Kaurihohore, Whangārei, New Zealand. This is a work in progress.
Our vision is for this website to serve as a digital repository for the rich tapestry of stories and events that shape our community and identity. Through meticulous documentation and insightful narratives, we strive to preserve the essence of our collective past, ensuring that the voices of generations are heard and celebrated.
From the stories of the original inhabitants of these lands (tangata whēnua) and more recent immigrant settlers forging new lives, each entry reflects the diverse mosaic of human experience. Delve into historical archives, browse through captivating photographs, and immerse yourself in the chronicles of yesteryears.
Moreover, this platform is more than just a repository; it's a space for connection and dialogue. Engage with fellow enthusiasts, share personal anecdotes, and participate in discussions that illuminate our shared history and its relevance to our present and future.
Join us on this journey of discovery and rediscovery as we navigate the labyrinth of time, recording our histories, understanding our past, and connecting for our future.
Kaurihohore
The community of Kauri sits on the outskirts of Whangarei, Northland. State Highway 1 passes through the area. Kamo is to the south, and Hikurangi is to the north. Mt Parakiore is a volcanic dome rising 391 metres (1,283 ft) to the southwest. It is about one million years old, and part of the Harbour Fault, which also includes Mt Hikurangi near Hikurangi, and Parahaki in Whangarei.
The area was initially called Kaurihohore and was settled by Scottish immigrants from Nova Scotia in the 1850s.
Most of the early settlers were emigrants, paying their own fares and claiming land under the Forty Acre Scheme. Many of these early settlers still have descendants living in the area today. Some are 7th generation.
You can read more about the stories of the many residents who have enjoyed living and being part of this close community over the years on this website, or by purchasing the book ‘Memories of Kaurihohore and Vinegar Hill’ published in 2019.
The story behind the naming of our area
Hineāmaru was the daughter of Torongare (Ngati Kahu) and Hauhaua, grand daughter of Uenuku, and great grand daughter of the famous Ngāpuhi ancestor, Rāhiri. She lived over 400 years ago in a place called Waimamaku. Her father fell out with his wife’s people, so they left their home, along with a group of followers, in search of a new place to live.
After travelling for a long time and stopping in many places along the way, they eventually settled in Waiōmio. Hauhaua died during the long journey, and Torongare had become old and no longer able to lead his people, so Himeāmaru immediately became the rangatira (leader).
As a leader, Hineāmaru built Pa in various locations; she led expeditions through the Waiōmio Valley and Taumarere to the fishing grounds and pipi gathering areas; she set fire to dead rata trees in Paparata, clearing land to plant kumara; and she discovered caves and valleys during her many travels.
Hineāmaru met Koperu of Ngati Wai at his home on the shore of the Taumarere River. They were married, and a huge hangi of pipi was cooked in her honour.
Hineāmaru continued to travel all around Te Tai Tokerau, visiting her many whanaunga (relations). Travel could take days, weeks or even months, and Hineāmaru would leave clues or markers to show the way home again.
She would often stop to rest in a limestone formation, now known as “Te ritenga o Hineāmaru,” when she travelled through Waro and Te Māra o Kauwhata (Hikurangi township and Hikurangi swamp).
This particular area was all native bush, with many large Kauri growing in the region. It is said that Hineāmaru marked these Kauri by scraping bark off particular Kauri trees to indicate the way home. These tohu (signs) were also an indication for her whānau, to show that they were on the right path.
Hineāmaru often travelled to the takutai moana (coastal area) from Waiōmio to visit the people of her husband Koperu. She also travelled south towards Maungatapere, where her father would often be.
Hineāmaru was a rangatira of great mana. She occupies a place of honour in the form of carved Pou in many meeting houses throughout the North today.
Kauri - Agathis Australis) is the largest forest tree but found only in the Northern North Island. Soot from burnt Kauri gum was used for tattooing.
Hohore - 1. (Verb) (-a) to peel, strip off, pluck
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“Kaurihohore means place of the white marked Kauri (or some say stripped back Kauri). Apotu means spout which legend says refers to our many water springs.”
— Memories of Kaurihohore and Vinegar Hill, 2019.