June saw whānau and friends travel to Rarotonga to celebrate the wedding of Mihiata Ramsden (Tūhaitara, Irakehu, Huikai) to Peter Albury. Respect for the couple was obvious as there was a large representation of Peter’s family and friends who had travelled from England.
The charms of Rarotonga combined to make the most special of weddings. The warmth of the tangata whenua, the climate, fresh island fruit and the fish…auē te aroha, auē te pai. The young ones partied hard and soon became well known (and popular) around the island. For those of slightly more advanced years there were other pleasures. Using Peter Buck’s “Vikings of the Sunrise” as a guide, there was a visit to Taputapu–ātea Marae that led to a most enjoyable afternoon, as we shared our combined histories.
To be able to mihi at the grave of the mother of Riki Te Mairaki Ellison was indeed a privilege. By chance (perhaps meant to happen), we also found the site of Arai-Te-Tonga Marae, whose name proudly resides in the takiwā of Ngāti Porou. Again to mihi at the launching site of the famed Takitimu and Tainui waka. For me the most special of all was to sit and enjoy the bond of our shared language.
Mihiata and Peter will honeymoon in England taking the opportunity to attend a whānau wedding. All returned home to Te Waipounamu with memories of very special wedding and a reconnection with Rarotonga.
Nā Peter Te Rangihiroa Ramsden (father of the bride).
Koukourārata whānau and friends.
Mananui Ramsden, Mihiata and Peter Albury, Anne and Peter Ramsden.