Preservation of Rakau Momori

In March, Te Papa conservator Nirmala Balram returned to Rēkohu with imi member Bella Penter to further treat the rākau momori housed within the Kōpinga grounds. During their visit, stages one and two of an ongoing conservation plan were completed, with the assistance of on-island volunteers.

Nirmala and Bella last visited in September 2023, when condition reports, measurements, images and general descriptions were completed for each of the stored rākau momori. Since then, continued observation, borer treatment and biocide spraying have seen insect infestations eradicated. 

The conservation focus of the most recent visit was to stabilise the dry rot and disintegrating parts of the rākau momori. Resin and synthetic wood glue were applied, and the trees were carefully bandaged to align loose elements to the base and minimise future loss. 

“The focus is for the physical preservation of the harvested trunks to ensure the intangible links can be maintained for the present and future generations,” said Nirmala. 

Of the 29 trees removed between 2010 and 2015, the majority are from Hāpūpū, with one each from Taia, Kairae and Pehenui. In order to fill in the gaps of what can and cannot be seen today, imagery from previous research initiatives is being consulted to gain a clearer understanding of what each tree might once have represented. 

The next step in the conservation plan is developing a stable, humidity-controlled environment for the 29 rākau momori. This will halt their deterioration and make future conservation efforts easier. Plans for this miheke whare are underway.