Wakatū Incorporation, based in Whakatū (Nelson), is owned by whānau and hapū who descend from the traditional Māori land owners of Whakatū, Motueka and Mohua -Te Tau Ihu, the top of New Zealand’s South Island.
The koekoeā is the long-tailed cuckoo, and our magazine title takes its inspiration from birds as a metaphor for communication – colloquially, ‘koekoeā’ can mean to chatter. Koekoeā were known for their powers of long flight, their intelligence and, in some legends, the birds were used as messengers.
Our Koekoeā magazine is focused on our people and places, our legacy and the work and activities of Wakatū. Our history in Te Tauihu dates from the early 1800s and the time of the hekenga, the great migration from the west coast of the North Island. Our families have had a long history in this region as fishers, gardeners, traders and entrepreneurs, and we’re proud to continue this legacy.
We hope you enjoy the stories shared in this first issue of Koekoea.
