Raising funds to restore the headstone of Jane Takotowi Clendon (1838-1919) in Rawene Cemetery

At the May 2019 launch of the book Te Whakatupuranga o Mihi Kerenene / The Early Life Of Jane Takotowi Clendon, we resolved to restore Jane’s headstone in the Rawene Cemetery. It is tilting forward about 10 degrees and is at risk of toppling over and breaking.

On behalf of the organizing committee of the book launch and whanau, I have asked for cost estimates from two monumental masons, selected one to do the work (Robinson Memorials in Whangarei), and secured permission from the Far North District Council.

We will offer a karakia before the team begins the work and come together at a later date to complete the process.

Robinson Memorials plan to do the work in early November. Robinson’s wrote: “The actual job will take a couple of days but this may be spread out over a week to allow concrete to dry. We will aim to use the original concrete plinth; however, if that is not feasible, we will construct and install a new one for the headstone. To help mitigate future subsidence, we will extend concrete piers angled into the soil beneath the new concrete surface”.

The cost estimate for this work is $2330

- I have set the target for this Give a Little at $2700 in case there are additional costs including the 5% Give a Little service fee. Any unspent funds will be donated to Opononi Area School (we have previously donated swimming equipment to Rawene Primary School).

I am happy to respond to any questions or suggestions. My email is mtjbro@xtra.co.nz