LOWER HUTT
KŌANGA • SPRING 2023
Baring Head lighthouse and the CO2 monitoring station.
Recognising the layers of history at Ōrua-Pouanui Baring Head WORDS: Kerryn Pollock
IMAGES: Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga
Situated on the exposed southeastern coastline of Wellington's Harbour entrance, Ōrua-Pouanui Baring Head, has recently gained recognition as a historic area on the New Zealand Heritage List Rārangi Kōrero. This listing acknowledges its status as a site with multiple significant historic places, each holding a diverse range of captivating stories.
T
he name Ōrua-Pouanui pays tribute to the den or retreat ("rua") of the ancestor Pouanui. A cave nestled in the rockface beneath the Baring Head lighthouse is believed to have been his refuge, adding an intriguing layer to the area's history. KŌANGA • SPRING 2023
Nearby, within the confines of East Harbour Regional Park, lies the site of Parangarahu, a pā situated atop the present-day plateau of Fitzroy Bay. The strategic positioning of Parangarahu allowed its inhabitants to keep a watchful eye over the harbour while
being conveniently close to the abundant kaimoana and the eel-filled lagoons of Kōhangapiripiri and Kōhangatera, two picturesque inland lakes. Today, these lakes are accessible to day hikers, who can embark on a round trip from the historic Pencarrow Lighthouse, a Heritage Quarterly
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