JM Barker (Hapupu) Historic Reserve facts for kids
JM Barker (Hapupu) National Historic Reserve is a special place on Chatham Island. It protects 33 hectares of kopi trees, also known as karaka trees. These trees hold ancient carvings made by the Moriori people. These carvings are called momori-rakau, or sometimes dendroglyphs. The reserve is found on the north-eastern side of Chatham Island, near Hanson Bay.
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What is Hapupu National Historic Reserve?
This reserve is one of only two national historic reserves in New Zealand. It's very important to the Moriori people of Rekohu (which is another name for the Chatham Islands). The land was given to the New Zealand government in 1979 by Barker Bros Ltd.
The Ancient Tree Carvings
The momori-rakau are some of the only remaining signs of the Moriori culture from before Europeans arrived. These carvings show Moriori karapuna (ancestors) and things from nature. For example, you can see patiki (flounder) and hopo (albatross). In 1998, experts found 82 trees with carvings.
Protecting the Carvings
Over time, the number of momori-rakau has been going down. This is because the trees get old, animals graze on them, and strong winds cause damage. In the past, some people even took parts of the carvings as souvenirs.
To protect these special carvings, the reserve was fenced in 1980. This stopped animals from grazing, and the area is now recovering well. The Department of Conservation (DOC) and the Moriori people are now working together. They plan to set aside a small part of the reserve. This will allow modern Moriori carvers to create new momori-rakau. This will help keep the tradition alive.
Who Owns the Land Now?
Barker Bros recently sold most of their farmland around Hapupu. This land was bought by the Hokotehi Moriori Trust. This trust is the official group that looks after Moriori lands and agreements.
What Do the Carvings Mean?
People have discussed the meaning of the momori-rakau for many years. Some people think the carvings mainly show birds. However, Moriori representatives do not agree with this idea. They do not see themselves as "Bird People." Instead, they feel a strong connection with all parts of nature around them. The Moriori people have been the guardians of Rekohu for a very long time.
