Pourewa Island facts for kids
Pourewa Island by the right with Mitre Rocks by the left and cook's cove in the foreground
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| Geography | |
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| Location | Gisborne Region |
| Coordinates | 38°23′S 178°21′E / 38.383°S 178.350°E |
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Pourewa Island is a small island located in Tolaga Bay, a beautiful bay on the east coast of New Zealand. It sits just offshore from a place called Cook's Cove. This island has a rich history and has been known by a few different names over time.
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Island Names and History
Pourewa Island has had several names throughout history, reflecting its different connections to people and events.
Spöring Island
For a while, Pourewa Island was known as Spöring Island. This name was given by Lieutenant James Cook, the famous British explorer. He named it after Herman Spöring, a Finnish scientist and artist. Spöring was part of the scientific team on Cook's ship, the HM Bark Endeavour, during its voyage to New Zealand in 1769.
A Monument in Finland
To remember Herman Spöring and his journey, a special monument was built in his hometown of Turku, Finland. In 1990, a rock was taken all the way from Pourewa Island and sent to Turku. This rock became part of the monument, celebrating the first Finn known to have landed in New Zealand.
Loisel's Island
Sometimes, the island was also called Loisel's Island. This name came from Henri Loisel, a farmer who had a sheep farm at Waihau Bay, which is to the south of the island. It's said that he used to keep his yacht moored near the island.
Pourewa: The Original Name
Today, the island is officially known by its original and traditional Māori name, Pourewa. This shows respect for the indigenous people of New Zealand and their history with the land.
