Madhuban is happily located at the base of the rock formation of Ohakiri Pa, or, as the British settler’s renamed it – St Paul’s Rock. The rock is entwined in the Maori legend of the formation of Whangaroa Harbour, and is traditionally significant, a focus for mana in the surrounding area. It is a Maori citadel that is more impressive than many European fortresses. The site is culturally significant to Te Runanga of Whangaroa, to the descendants of early European settlers and in the Whangaroa region, and to all New Zealanders as part of their early history. And thus goes the legend of the Ohakiri…
Long ago there were two gods; Taratara was tall and handsome with many treasures and two beautiful wives, Okaha-hiria and Turou. Maungataniwha, who lived furthered up the Otangaroa Valley, was a jealous god who would use force if he could not get his way.
As Maungataniwha did not have a wife, he became very envious of Taratara, and decided to ask him for one of his wives. As he walked the ground shook for miles around. He stopped beside Taratara and asked for one of his wives. Taratara refused and so Maungataniwha went away disappointed.
Many months passed before he decided to ask again but Taratara again turned him down. Maungataniwha was furious and threatened to disfigure Taratara.
More months passed and Maungataniwha made a final request, so down the valley he thundered once more. This time when Taratara said “no” and laughed.
Maungataniwha became so enraged he lashed at Taratara, whose head flew from his shoulders across the Whangaroa Harbour to its present position- Ohakiri or St Paul’s.
Bits and pieces of Taratara were scattered far and near and lie on the valley floors of Pupuke and Otangaroa.
Maungamiemie was so distressed at the sight of her mighty neighbours fighting that she wept, and to this day her tears continue to flow in the streams that wind down to the waters of the Whangaroa Harbour.
This rock was later named as St Paul’s Rock by the British missionary settlers.
For more details, see the historical documents published by the govt of New Zealand.
Madhuban - New Zealand 