Spiritual Healing (December, 2006)
Arohanui Hospice has been honoured by the presentation of a carving created by Henare Perenara and his colleague Hone Heke of Ohau in the Horowhenua.
Henare's late wife Ani had been cared for by Arohanui Hospice before she passed away in February 2005. At the time he said that he would like to create something lasting for the Hospice that honoured both Ani's memory as well as all those involved in her care.
The result is a magnificent carving set at the main entrance to Arohanui Hospice. Henare describes it as created around the concept of spiritual healing, the full meaning of which is best described in Henare's own words: 'Matariki, the constellation of stars representing our Tupuna, our ancestors who provide guidance and spiritual direction to any and all who 'seek' it, sits as a mantle on the brow.
Happiness and sadness, grief and celebration, all of life's emotions are depicted in each line, each twist, and each stroke of creation.
Flowing from this art form , gently cascading down over the glacier polished greenstone retrieved from the bed of the Arahura river in the South Island are the cleansing waters'! The waters of life! Taken from your rivers and your oceans.
The commitment of those entrusted with Ani's care (staff and volunteers) while at Arohanui Hospice is depicted in the Maihi with arms outstretched offering unconditional love and support.'
In September a powhiri was held followed by an official unveiling of the carving. In attendance were staff and volunteers from Arohanui Hospice as well as members of both Henare and Ani's respective whanau. The ceremony was guided by the MidCentral Kaumatua support group Te Roopu Mangai Kaumatua and was a very moving event for all involved.
