Carving for Wowo unveiled

John McGrath took two years to carve a pou representing his sister Patricia McGrath. Photo / John Stone

A carving two years in the making representing the late Patricia McGrath has taken pride of place in a Whangarei government department office, to recognise the support of her workmates to the McGrath family.

Phillip Andre Mahanga assaulted 34-year-old Patricia, affectionately known as Wowo, in a house in Fairway Dr, Kamo, on January 4, 2013.

The mother of two was taken to Whangarei Hospital with head injuries. But four days later she was taken off life support and died, surrounded by family.

In an emotional ceremony last weekend at the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) where Wowo worked before her death, the pou was presented.

Carved from totara and with blonde hair made from flax, it is the work of Wowo's brother, John McGrath.

After being blessed, it was carried by Mr McGrath and brother Albie, and bolted to the wall at the back of the office. It was unveiled by Wowo's two children, who are represented on the carving.

Mr McGrath explained that when Wowo was taken to Whangarei Hospital on January 4 the next day was her birthday.

"The room was full of Wowo's workmates singing her happy birthday and they were having a good laugh. They didn't have to be there that day but the aroha they showed for this girl, I could see that."

They had continued to support the family since her death. Mr McGrath said the Manaia-styled carving was a way of recognising the support of her workmates.

"We always knew we had to pay back the awhi [support] and we hope this is some form of closure. She is ours as she is yours. Thanks to everyone, friends, whanau and colleagues of Wo alike, for helping us complete the journey of her pou whakairo to its home at Work and Income in Whangarei."

Eru Lyndon, regional commissioner for the MSD in Northland, said the pou was a beautiful reminder of a dear friend and colleague, but more importantly was a constant reminder for staff and clients that family violence was not okay.

"The pou has been gifted to the ministry as an acknowledgment of the support provided by Work and Income staff to the McGrath whanau at the time of their tragic loss and in the years following."