Would have opposed toki

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Opinion

Re: Beautiful, meaningful stories to be told, June 23.

Amber, I am one of your ardent supporters and your explanation as to what a “toki” is, I am certain is of value to both myself and hundreds of readers. You stated that the toki were referred to and discussed at a public meeting. However, were the gathered assembly informed as to the cost of these items? If they were, then surely there would have been exclamations of “good grief” etc etc.

I have already had a number of people tell me they cannot believe the three toki cost $150,000.

I for one would have said something earlier, had I known, and I would have opposed their construction.

You stated that they were ancient drawing, carving and writing instruments.

I agree with you wholeheartedly that writing books can be a career path, however, toki were never used for writing as Maori had no written language.

I still feel that $150,000 for the toki is well above their value to us, our history, and our community. Believe me, I am not alone.

Mike Mulrooney