Kumutoto was the first stream to be culverted in Wellington in the late 1800s. Before this it was a very significant place for Te Āti Awa. Pre 1840’s, Kumutoto was a large, free-flowing, and abundant river that formed part of Kumutoto pā. The river was an important food and irrigation source. It was used for naming rituals and most notably part of the stream was tapu (restricted) for birthing practices.
Working bees: We meet 10am-12pm every second and fourth Saturday of the month. We check traps, clear weeds and rubbish, and help restore the awa. Hot soup and kai are provided! Please bring along reusable containers and cutlery for your kai.
The name ‘Kumutoto’ reflects the stream’s relationship to birthing. It translates to “bleeding from the behind”, which reflected the hemorrhoids that often accompany birth. The name also performed a secondary purpose: those who were told the name would know the stream was tapu and thus would not venture into it without consent.
Kumutoto Forest is a project which is linked to the international Society of Conservation Biology (SCB). Kumutoto is part of three projects under the Wellington Chapter which is the only SCB chapter in New Zealand. The group is also closely linked into Victoria University of Wellington. The ngahere has been a study site for students from different departments including ecology, film, and law.
