Auckland Libraries

Xavier Forsman - Poukōkiri Rangahau Māori at Research North reviews the 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake from a Te Ao Māori perspective. He breaks down the Maori concept of mana as an illustration of the unique way in which the Maori community were impacted by this disaster and the ways in which recovery was intimately tied to the restoration of mana. His work in this area led Xavier to the story of the Whakatu Freezing works and the further impact its closure had on a close knit community. In the following talk, both events are discussed in terms of disaster, environmental and economic, offering a deeper understanding of their wider impact and ways in which we might better embrace new opportunities moving forward with a shared understanding. Haramai tētahi ahua! Enjoy the journey! Images from Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections: Refugee camp, Nelson Park, Napier, 1931: https://bit.ly/3co6Fhr Napier after the earthquake, 1931: https://bit.ly/3dzDAzI Te Aute College bell lying among wreckage after the Napie