Culture and tradition combine in this intricately carved swagger stick, once belonging to a 28th Māori Battalion Chaplain. 

A swagger stick is a short, light stick or a riding crop, usually carried as a symbol of authority. A swagger stick is shorter than a staff or cane, and made from light materials like rattan, bamboo, or wood. Before WWI, swagger sticks were carried by British Army other ranks when off duty, as part of their “walking out” uniform. The stick took the form of a short cane of polished wood, with an ornamented metal head in a regimental pattern. The usual custom was for the soldier to carry the stick tucked under their arm.

Reverend Kahi Takimoana Harawira, a Te Aute College ‘old boy’, was born in Te Kao on 31 July 1892 and enlisted as a Sergeant with A Company, 1st Mãori Contingent in WWI. Harawira first headed to Egypt, Malta, and then Gallipoli, where he was seriously wounded and later discharged home to NZ. In WWII, Harawira served as an Anglican minister in England, Greece, Crete, and North Africa, and was often instrumental in starting the singing of the hymn Aue e Ihu (Jesus Lover of my Soul). It was a hymn sung at Gallipoli by members of the Mãori Contingent in WWI and soon became popular amongst the men of the 28th Mãori Battalion in WWII.

After the war, he continued his work with the church, working specifically with youth in Auckland. He was also involved in mission work in India, South East Asia, Brazil, Tonga, and Europe. He passed away aged 71 in December 1963. He was survived by his wife, Arapira, two sons and a daughter.

This swagger stick is on display in the Museum, unique with its Māori carved figure in place of the usual metal ornamental emblem.