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Te Toka site

Te Toka a Taiao

The Mataatua waka first landed at Te Toka Tapu, which is sited opposite Turuturu Roimata (Statue Rock) at the Whakatāne river mouth. When the waka began to drift and was in danger of being swept onto the rocks, Wairaka uttered the famous words: “E, kia Whakatane ake au I ahau" – I shall act as a man.  

After the incident Toroa, Captain of the Mataatua decided to take the waka to calmer waters where it was secured at the rocks known as “Te Toka a Taiao”.  These are also referred to as “Te Punga o Mataatua” (the anchor stone of Mataatua).

Te Toka a Taiao remains an important landmark to Ngāti Awa and indeed all Mataatua iwi. The sacred reef lies in the river.

Contact Details

Whakatane River
Whakatane
New Zealand

More things to do

Venture off the beaten path and into the whimsical realm of Maggie's Funtastic Garden near Edgecumbe, where artist and sculptor Maggie Fenton has created two acres of themed gardens that will delight kids.

Te Toka o Irakewa is one of three landmarks that Toroa was told to look for by his father Irakewa when the Mataatua canoe journeyed to Kakahoroa. 

The Whirinaki Rainforest - a majestic, ancient and spiritual realm. Join us for a guided walking journey into the heart of this vast, Jurassic, podocarp rain forest. 

Te Kura Whare is New Zealand’s first living building. It embodies Tūhoe and Tūhoetana values of respect for nature and whenua, inspired by the unity of people.

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