Poroporoaki (Farewell) Panguru

The 22nd of February 2008 was the day when the Sisters were farewelled from Panguru – ninety years after their arrival in 1918. Rangi (sky) shed tears of joy and sadness. We drove to the Church where we were given lapel poi, and escorted to the front seats. The Church had been beautifully decorated with nikau (palm) and fern and a variety of curled flax. It was filled to overflowing, with children and even adults sitting on the floor. Our celebrants were Pa Henare (Tate), Father Dennehy (Parish Priest) and Father Arthur SM (Okaihau). The singing during the Mass was heartfelt. The Offertory hymn was sung by the KohuKohu Community Church Group.

Pa Henare said in his kauhau (sermon) that this event rather than a poroporoake (farewell) was one of whakatukua or setting free to take up another mission.

The children from both Panguru and Mitimiti Schools sang with their usual enthusiasm.

A tent had been set up to shelter us while we waited for the karanga (call) to enter Ngati Manawa Marae.

The School pupils performed a rousing haka (fierce dance with chant) as we proceeded to the whare-nui (meeting house), where we were clothed in feather korowai (cloak). There were twelve Sisters and one Brother in the ropu-a-iwi (group of [religious] people). After prayer and short mihi mihi (greetings) we were offered light refreshments in the whare-kai (dining room) followed by a recall to the whare hui. This was the time of speeches and presentations and many tears and waiata (songs). A very moving part of the procedure was the handing over of the two Sisters (Louise and Christina) to their Province Leader – Sister Ann Neven. Up to this point they had been seated with the tangata whenua (local people). They now joined the manuhiri (visitors). The aroha (love) and generosity of the people was overwhelming.

Another call came from the whare-kai where a delicious hakari (feast) had been prepared in spite of the fact that there was a power-cut!

The final touch was the cutting and sharing of a very large cake. Sisters Louise and Christina give thanks for their years in Panguru and ask God’s blessing on all who were able to make the journey to celebrate such a special occasion.