THE SLEEPING GIANT

Te Mata Peak is known as the Sleeping Giant for the shape of its profile (a likeness that’s most obvious when seen from around Hastings) and for its connection to the legend of Waimarama chief Te Mata.

The rival Pakipaki people enticed Te Mata into falling in love with Hinerakau, the daughter of a Pakipaki chief. In order to prove his love, Te Mata was set a series of tasks, including biting his way through the peak that now bears his name. In doing so, he choked on the earth and died. His body became Te Mata Peak – you’ll pass the bite, or The Gap, between the summit and Saddle Lookout.