How Ahipara got its name

                              Ahipara

There were two tribes in the north, Te Rarawa and te Aupouri. These two tribes were constantly at war over 90 mile beach. After many battles Te Rarawa under their chief Poroa who pushed Te Aupouri towards the north end of the beach. They had to put a line across the beach  as a boundary.

Poroa was given a wife, her name was Wangatauatia. When poroa had returned to his pa, he had named his pa after his wife.

The peace between the tribes went on for many years until poroa had died. During this time taking of the fish, birds and shellfish from the beach was strictly prohibited, this ban was called Rahui.

When the tapu was lifted, a great feast was held. They would catch some fish and shellfish and they would cook it on a special fire.

It was from this from this offering that Ahipara was named

Parapara- The roast fish that was put aside for a offering.

Poroa- the chief of Te Rarawa.

Whangatauatia- Poroa wife.

Te Aupouri- The tribe to the north.

Ahipara- The place in our story today.