The bones of 19th century Maori chief Hone Heke were moved from a cave in Northland this morning.
Hone Heke Foundation chair David Rankin said the bones were wrapped in a flax shroud and blessed by Te Tai Tokerau Anglican Bishop Te Kitohi Pikaahu before being moved to a temporary urupa in Kaikohe, about half way between the Hokianga Harbour and the Bay of Islands, in preparation for their burial on nearby Kaikohe Hill at a later date.
Heke was buried in 1850 near Pakaraka, east of Kaikohe, on land owned by missionary Henry Williams.
The bones were adjacent to two areas where land development potentially threatened them, Mr Rankin said.
"Hone Heke is one of our most prominent ancestors, and is a major personality in New Zealand history.
"We have an obligation to ensure his remains are protected."
Ngapuhi elder Kingi Taurua told Radio New Zealand Mr Rankin was acting alone and was meddling where he should not be.
Mr Rankin did not consult any other hapu in the area who had stronger links to Hone Heke, himself included, Mr Taurua said.
