Holding Hongi...
The author was fortunate to have been given the opportunity to view, examine and hold the carved wooden (self-portrait) of famed Ngapuhi Rangatira (Chief) Hongi Hika. It is possible that this item was carved while the great chief was staying in Parramatta in 1814, or during his journey between New Zealand and London (via Sydney) in 1820. More research needs to be done to confirm this however.
Photo of author holding Hongi's upoko (head) courtesy of Rebecca Conway, Curator - Macleay Museum, Sydney U
niversity Feb 2015.
