Home-Holy Cross reflections in Miramar
- Introduction
- Research process
- Learning outcomes
- Our History
- Catherine McAuley, founder of the Mercy Sisters
- Marcellin Champagnat
- Sister Natalie, Mercy Sister
- Brother Doug, Marist Brother
- A past student - Pauline
- Our Principal's story
- Special Character
- Feast of the Holy Cross
- Meditation and what it means to us
- Sister Ema and meditation
- Lights, camera, meditation
- Sign of the Cross
- The Holy Cross Parish
- About Miramar
- Ngake and Whataitai
- The First State House In New Zealand
- The Miramar Cutting
- Our team
- References and acknowledgements
Ngake and Whataitai
The Legend of Wellington Harbour
One day there were two legendary taniwhas named Ngake and Whataitai. They were restless. They had been stuck in Te Whanganui a tara in Motu karirangi (Wellington harbour) forever. Ngake was adventuress and determined, while Whataitai was open hearted and calm.
The day came, when Ngake had lost his patience from being stranded in a land locked place. He twisted his tail with fury, sprang towards Raukawa Moana (Cook Strait) then broke free, covered in wounds and blood he continued on his journey into the moana.
Whatataitai was stuck stranded in the middle of the sand. A huge earthquake had then occurred. The land then rose with Whataiatia on top of the land, and died a disgraceful death.
Whataitai’s wairua (spirit) rose from his body and changed into Te keo (a bird). He flew with horror and disbelief to Matairangi (Mt Victoria) crying for Whataitai. When you visit Mt Victoria, listen and you might hear his cries.
Retold by Maria, Year 6