Hokioi
The Royal Standard tohu (emblem) of the Taiopuru is the Hokioi (giant pre historic eagle).
Te Kotuku (white Heron)
According to Ko Huiarau tradition, the Royal Standard emblem of the Queen of Great Britain Elizabeth, is Te Kotuku (white Heron).
This bird was gifted to Queen Victoria on signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, te represent Victoria’s people. The were known as Ngati Wikitoria, a new tribe with the rights and obligations of any other tribe.
Symbols That Bind
Since earliest times flags have been something more than functional objects, standards used for identification on the battlefield, or to carry on ships to denote different allegiances. They early became symbols of human aspirations, loyalties, ideals and desires. The same can be said for Ko Huiarau. Below is a view of the Treaty Partnership crowns that share our country of Aotearoa.
Ko Huiarau Maori Sovereign flag
A gift from King William IV in 1832, recognising Aotearoa as its own Sovereign State
Taiopuru Merchant Navy
Taiopuru Merchant Navy 1838, designed in the colours of the Hokioi. Red, gold, white and blue quadrants with a black cross were carried on all ships owned by the Taiopuru.
Union Steam Ship Company
Taiopuru colours gifted to the Union Steam Ship Company in 1864, allowing them free access to every port in Aotearoa and Te Moananui a Kiwa (The Pacific).
The Union Jack
The Union Jack of Great Britian, representing England, Ireland and Scotland
Flag of England
Flag of New Zealand
The National Flag of New Zealand adopted in 1902.