A distinctive rock by the side of State Highway One is significant to Māori for its role in the story of Hatupatu. He was taken prisoner by the fearsome bird-woman Kurangaituku, but managed to escape from her lair. Kurangaituku gave chase, but the rock magically opened to shelter Hatupatu. Some say that the bird-woman’s claw marks are still visible on the rock.
Listen to a Roadside Story about Hatupatu's Rock. Roadside Stories is a series of audio guides to places around New Zealand.
Taonga puoro courtesy of Richard Nunns
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YouTube: Manatu Taonga's channel
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