Te Pae Tāwhiti | Awaawaroa, Waiheke Island

Awaawaroa is translated as "Two Long Rivers." The Pae's site is a hill that once served as a lookout point for tangata whenua, providing views up and down the Awaawaroa Valley and overlooking the meeting point of two streams. The sides of the hill feature terracing, indicating past Māori activity and/or structures, positioned between a pā site above and the waters of the estuary below.

The valley contains a fully restored wetland ecosystem, recognised as a sanctuary for tuna (long-finned eel) and other native fish.

Commissioned by the Kermode family, who write:

"We want the seat to reflect our commitment and respect for the history of this place, as well as the environmental and conservation values upheld by tangata whenua, Lady Jennie, and the late Sir Rob Fenwick, who have carried on and strengthened this kaupapa over the past three decades.

The aim was to create a simple stone seat with a backrest for comfort, designed to accommodate at least four people, incorporating elements that reference the local environment.

We hope the Pae evolves positively over time through local community involvement, contributing to a broader understanding of environmental and conservation values and how they can be upheld.

For us, the seat is more than just a physical structure—it is a way to share our land, history, and beliefs with others.

We also hope this place becomes even more special to our family, for our children, and, if they come, their children—to enjoy, care for, and continue these values."