Rata & the Totara

Rata & the Totara

Rata’s Mother told him that she had seen a magnificent totara tree, Rata knew what this meant, he had to go to seek answers about his father's murder. Early in the morning Rata found the totara tree his mother had told him about. He forgot to ask permission ( Tikanga ) and picked up his stone adze and started to chop down the tree.  By the end of the day the tree was nearly down, with one last strike the tree came down. He was so tired he decided to leave for the day and do the carving tomorrow. As soon as Rata had left the birds and insects rushed to see the damage, they decided to put the tree back together, Several hours later the tree stood tall, with everything back in place. The tree shook i back in place. When Rata comes back the next day saw the tree standing tall again, he felt angry and again he began to chop down the tree. Again the birds and insects come out and fix it, this happens 1 more time. He was so furious he grabbed fantail and asked for an explanation, fantail explained that he forgot to ask for permission, Rata was instantly shamed he knew he was wrong and sorry.  The tree shook it was now giving Rata permission to use the tree, the birds told Rata to go home and they would finish the waka for him. This time when Rata returned the next day he found a beautifully carved waka. He gave  thanks to Tanemahuta again and set off on his quest.