 Michael King "I was asked to do a biography on Andreas Reischek by publishing company Hodder & Stoughton who thought he was a breathtaking explorer. In my research I discovered he not only helped to wipe out native New Zealand birds but he also ransacked Maori tombs and graves, but he was unique because he actually wrote a book about what he did. Maori tribes are able to whakapapa (recite genealogical connections) to the bodies and remains that he stole - in this way he is quite unique.  When he stole the remains of the Tainui chief Tupahau he actually bragged about it in his journals. Consequently Tainui were able approach Vienna and demand the return of their ancestor. In regards to the Kaipara Harbour request for the return of their ancestors taken by Andreas Reischek they too are able to whakapapa to their tipuna. However the Ngati Hine tribe of Ngapuhi will have to prove Reischek took the head of their chief Maihi Paroane Kawiti as they have accused him of severing the head the evening of the chief's burial. Are they looking for a skull or did Reischek have the head dried, smoked and prepared...?" |
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