As you drive towards the Lodge on arriving, you will be warmly greeted by Firmin Lodge's treasured Taonga.
Majestic in its presence and standing over 3 metres high, the Kawerau Koauau has a story to share all of its own.
Starting its life as a Cedar tree growing nearby at Tarawera Park, in 2015 it was felled and rather than a destiny as firewood was transformed at Kawerau Woodfest into its current form.
The koauau (or Maori flute) was carved by Tai Meuli who unlocked his creative inspiration after talking with locals around the significance of Putauaki to the region.
A combination of legend around the use of a koauau (by Putauaki the person; to call his partner back) and how when the southerly wind (blasts up the Tarawera Valley), which makes a sound much like the koauau, were both deemed fitting reasons for the selection of this carved taonga (treasure) to be the welcoming piece at Firmin Lodge.
Carved using ancient waka (canoe) building techniques; by using a fire to create a well with the charcoal embers gradually carved out of the heart of the timber, eventually creating the hollow mouth piece of the flute.
The carved inscription was produced by local carver and friend of Tai - Dallas Toko. A worthy demonstration of collaboration to create this unique carving.
A night time viewing in itself is well worth the time to observe, as the revolving lights bring the taonga to life as it morphs through a series of hues.
For us it's a striking statement in calling the people from across the globe via the four winds; to come to Kawerau.