History – Carved tokotoko returns

A tokotoko, or carved ceremonial walking stick, was officially received by the Mangawhai Museum on October 7. The carving on the tokotoko describes it as a ‘talking stick’, often used by speakers on a marae. The tokotoko was gifted to Robert Ross by Chief Paikea, of Oruawharo, during the 1870s. This gift was one of many received by Ross, due to his friendship with the chief and his people.

On his death, these gifts were passed to Ross’ brothers. One of those brothers was James, who next passed the tokotoko on to his only son Eric, and from Eric it passed to his daughter, Margaret Tripp, of Dunedin. After retirement, Margaret gave the tokotoko to the Otago Museum, who contacted the Mangawhai Museum to determine whether Mangawhai wished to receive it.

Mangawhai was chosen as the closest museum to the item’s origins at Oruawharo and it was received with open arms. In turn, we contacted Oruawharo descendants and Te Uri O Hau, who officiated the handover ceremony at Mangawhai Museum.

Robert Ross was the eldest son of early European settlers, Robert Snr and Christina Ross. Son Robert was always known as Bob to differentiate between the two Ross men. Bob never had children, but he did have many nephews and nieces. Some of these descendants attended the ceremony on Saturday, which proved rather emotional for those participating, especially those of the Paikea descends.

Bob grew up in Kaiwaka and by the time he reached his thirties, he had purchased land a little south at Topuni. He spoke te reo fluently, learning through his friendship with his neighbours. His ownership of land at Oruawharo is signified by Ross Road, which somewhat surrounds the Topuni pine forest. His home still stands.

A very large man in stature and strength, he was also known by a large number of people across the north of the North Island. He worked as a cattle drover, in business with George Linnel. It was said that as a staunch Christian, he never swore, not even at his bullock team.

The tokotoko will be a major talking point as it continues to interest folk while on display at the Mangawhai Museum.