The Story of Hine and TÄne Mahuta - Day 12
Long ago, Hine-te-Aroha, a daughter of the great chief TÄwhaki, was known for her beauty and devotion to the atua (gods). She was deeply connected to TÄne Mahuta, the atua of the forest and creator of humankind. In a past life, Hine had pledged herself to TÄne Mahuta, dedicating her aroha (love) and wairua (spirit) to him.
However, her father TÄwhaki disapproved of TÄne Mahuta. He saw TÄne as a humble being who spent his days nurturing the ngahere (forest) and the creatures of the world, living a simple life far from the wealth and prestige of a chief. TÄwhaki wanted his daughter to marry a great warrior or chief, someone who could uphold their mana (status). When TÄwhaki held a grand celebration to find a suitable match for Hine, TÄne Mahuta, knowing his humble lifestyle would draw scorn, chose not to attend.
Despite TÄneās warning, Hine attended the celebration out of loyalty to her father. During the festivities, TÄwhaki openly ridiculed TÄne Mahuta, speaking of his simple ways and lack of riches. Hine, unable to bear the insults to her beloved, declared her undying love for TÄne and consigned herself to the ceremonial fire, joining the wairua realm.
TÄne Mahuta, upon learning of this, was overwhelmed with aroha and grief. He sent his mighty winds, led by TÄwhirimÄtea, to dismantle TÄwhakiās gathering and humble the chief for his arrogance. Yet, TÄneās love for Hine remained steadfast, and he vowed to bring her back. Hine was reborn as Hine-te-Waiora, the daughter of the sacred mountain ranges.
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The Test of Devotion
As she grew, Hine-te-Waiora remembered her bond with TÄne Mahuta and began her karakia (prayers) to him. She vowed to marry only TÄne, despite her father showing her many wealthy and powerful suitors. Her devotion turned into months of rigorous karakia and fasting atop a sacred maunga (mountain).
The ngahere (forest) around her became peaceful, the winds softened, and even the fiercest creatures of the wild grew tame in her presence. Seasons came and went, but her focus never wavered.
Meanwhile, TÄne Mahuta, still grieving his past loss, had vowed never to take another partner. However, the atua noticed the chaos spreading in the human world as malevolent forces thrived unchecked. It was prophesied that only a child born of TÄne Mahuta and Hine-te-Waiora could restore balance.
To test her aroha and devotion, TÄne disguised himself as an old koroua (elder) and visited her. Pretending to doubt TÄneās worth, he mocked him, saying, āWhy would you dedicate yourself to a humble atua who lives among trees and birds? You could marry a great chief who could provide wealth and status.ā
Hine-te-Waiora, though respectful, became enraged. āYou may be an elder, but your words dishonor the one I love. TÄne Mahuta is the kaitiaki (guardian) of all life, and his mana is unmatched. I will hear no more of your insults!ā
At that moment, the koroua revealed himself as TÄne Mahuta. āYou have proven your unwavering aroha and devotion,ā he said with pride. He took her as his bride, and together they returned to the sacred ngahere to restore harmony to the world.
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Moral of the Story
This story teaches us that aroha (love) and pono (devotion) have the power to overcome all obstacles. When guided by sincerity and deep faith, even the greatest challenges can be transformed. Like Hine-te-Waiora, we are reminded to remain steadfast in our values and trust in the wairua to guide us. True love is not swayed by wealth or appearances but rooted in deep connection and understanding. Through aroha and devotion, balance and harmony can be restored to ourselves and the world around us.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Live Q&A: Garden maintenance with Crewcut
This Wednesday, we are having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with John Bracewell from Crewcut.
John Bracewell, former Black Caps coach turned Franchisee Development Manager and currently the face of Crewcutās #Movember campaign, knows a thing or two about keeping the grass looking sharpāwhether itās on a cricket pitch or in your backyard!
As a seasoned Crewcut franchisee, John is excited to answer your lawn and gardening questions. After years of perfecting the greens on the field, he's ready to share tips on how to knock your garden out of the park. Let's just say heās as passionate about lush lawns as he is about a good game of cricket!
John is happy to answer questions about lawn mowing, tree/hedge trimming, tidying your garden, ride on mowing, you name it! He'll be online on Wednesday, 27th of November to answer them all.
Share your question below now ā¬ļø
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