In 2020 during the start of the Covid 19 pandemic, while tramping at Rakaia Gorge I was overwhelmed with an energy (pūngao) and feeling to stop and listen.
Hands outstretched amongst a patch of deep forest I felt an exchange of energy (pūngao) and a connection with the trees (rākau). Looking upwards with a sense of being present, while hearing the tree tops gently sway in the mountain winds, I felt a wave of relief. Seeing these magnificent elders towering upwards towards the crisp blue sky, they spoke to me.
“Stay close to the trees and everything will be OK” they whispered. With tears in my eyes I felt seen. I felt calm and fearless.
I felt that life in an instant made more sense, and that we must stay connected to Papatūānuku, the land, mother earth who gives birth to all things of the world. During that moment she blessed me, and I’ve made a conscious effort since to notice the trees that surround me, and find solace amongst them.
Hagley Park in Christchurch is a place I love to walk and spend time amongst the elders who empower me to be present and connected to the Earth.
This series spans 2022- 2024 and is an extension of a body of work from 2021 ‘Godley after dark’ It showcases the wonder of Papatūānuku and the pūngao of rākau. During many visits I’ve found myself treating the rākau like portrait subjects and consequently i’ve captured their unique characteristics.
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