The Legend of Tūwhakararo explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Conflict and Reconciliation

  The murder of Tūwhakararo leads to a cycle of revenge, culminating in the destruction of the Āti Hāpai tribe.

• Resistance and Resilience

  Whakataupōtiki's cunning and determination to avenge his brother demonstrate resilience in the face of tragedy.

Characters to notice

• Tūwhakararo

  Murdered and devoured by the Āti Hāpai tribe after a wrestling match.

• Whakataupōtiki

  Leads the avenging war party against the Āti Hāpai tribe.

• Apakura

  Mother of Tūwhakararo and Whakataupōtiki; prepares fern root for the war party.

• Hīoi

  Captured by Whakataupōtiki, has his tongue cut out, then sent to summon Whakatau's sister.

Key passages

• “Tūwhakararo, wild with pain, could see nothing, and began to rub his eyes, to get the dust out and to ease the anguish; the young man then struck him on the head, and killed him.”

  Blinded by sand thrown in his eyes, Tūwhakararo was struck on the head and killed by his wrestling opponent.

  Describes the murder of Tūwhakararo.

• “Whakataupōtiki adopted a firm resolution to go and avenge Tūwhakararo’s death, and as the rest of his tribe agreed in this purpose, they began without delay to build canoes for its execution.”

  Whakataupōtiki resolved to avenge his brother, and with his tribe's support, they quickly built canoes for the mission.

  Shows the decision to seek revenge.

• “Thus they burnt the Uru-o-Manono, and all those who were in it. Then the warriors returned, and carried with them joyful news to Apakura, the mother of Tūwhakararo.”

  The war party burned the house Uru-o-Manono with everyone inside, then returned to bring joyful news to Apakura.

  Describes the successful revenge attack.