Mt Taranaki's almost snowless peak (top left corner) reflects the Taranaki province's hot summer months.
The war canoe (waka) shown is powered up the mighty Waitara River by members of the wise & fearless Puketapu Hapu - subtribe of the proud, warlike Te Atiawa Nation, as well as other Te Atiawa Hapu members during summer festivities.
This canoe & others were built under the guidance of Grant Knuckey who's legendary status among indigenous peoples world-wide is attributed to his ceaseless tireless work in getting back much of their land that was wrongfully confiscated during the Waitara Wars of the 1800's.
Both Grant & his brother Jack Knuckey, another legendary figure in New Zealand rugby league circles (a New Zealand Maori Rugby League representative) work for the rights of the people of Te Atiawa and its Hapus.
The Knuckey Family & The Thomas Family have been close friends for three generations & continue to support each others activities in their various roles.
Also featured is the Waitara Hotel now undergoing restoration work by new owners David Smith and his brother Glen (Smithie), the local drummer. The hotel dates back to the early 1900's & was a popular drinking spot for the many freezing workers & various industry workers during the now gone boom times of the 1950's to the 1980's. It is situated on the corner of the main street, McLean St & West Quay which will also see extensive work over the next twelve months as part of the plan to tidy up the Town's centre.
Next buildings along are the Sisarich Restaurant & Mr S Amusement Parlour belonging to well known local & long time friend Vince Sisarich & his family whose fish & chips have a special "old European/ Dalmation" flavour of their own. Highly recommended along with their grilled seafood meals for the weary traveller & local alike. Welcome to Waitara & see for yourself.Background by Azure Art (Melanie Barnes)
_________________________________________________________________________________________