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Matakana Island
Place Details
DescriptionMata means eye, and Kana is an abbreviation of Pukana, which is the word describing alertness. The dictionary of Maori place manes describes Matakana as meaning "wary" or "distrustful". The local history book "Matakana Island" states that there was a particular land mark on the island which acted as a lookout point called Matakana. Sentries who were placed there were strictly instructed to be on the lookout for approaching war parties - they needed to be Matakana. Eventually the Point gave its name to the whole Island.
Matakana Island has a population of under 300 and the only way to and from the mainland is by barge to Omokoroa. The Islanders famously and jealously protect their privacy and their life style, although respectful visitors are welcome.
Matakana Island has a population of under 300 and the only way to and from the mainland is by barge to Omokoroa. The Islanders famously and jealously protect their privacy and their life style, although respectful visitors are welcome.
Photographs
Books
Related Information
PlaceOmokoroaPhotographA cream cart driver and his horses from Matakana IslandBooksAku Taumata Korero : Nga Marae me nga Iwi o te Moana o TaurangaMaori Place Names : their meanings and originsA history of Tauranga CountyMatakana Island: te Whakakuruhau o te Moana o TaurangaPiata maiExternal LinksNgai te RangiMatakana Island incident: Tauranga Historical SocietyTe Awanui Hauora Trust
PhotographA cream cart driver and his horses from Matakana IslandBooksAku Taumata Korero : Nga Marae me nga Iwi o te Moana o TaurangaMaori Place Names : their meanings and originsA history of Tauranga CountyMatakana Island: te Whakakuruhau o te Moana o TaurangaPiata maiExternal LinksNgai te RangiMatakana Island incident: Tauranga Historical SocietyTe Awanui Hauora Trustloading google map....
Matakana Island. Western Bay of Plenty Community Archives, accessed 19/03/2026, https://westernbay.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/1363
