Māori carving dating from 1800s recovered after being stolen from Kaiapoi Pā
A historical and culturally significant Māori carving more than 120 years old has been recovered after it was stolen from a site in North Canterbury.
The carving was taken from the Kaiapoi Pā on Preeces Rd last week, police said.
The site is significant for local and tribal history and the monument dated back to the late 1800s.
Police searching a house in Leithfield Beach on Wednesday found several stolen items, including the carved monument.
Jeffrey White-Parsons, 40, was charged in relation to the stolen artefact and appeared via video-link in the Christchurch District Court on Thursday. White-Parsons also faces other charges including burglary and obtaining by deception.
White-Parsons applied for bail, but this was denied by Judge Brian Callaghan. He was remanded in custody to appear again on June 20.
“Police are thrilled to have found the artefact and be able to return it to its rightful place in the community,” a police spokesperson said.
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Musicians Wanted
‘Rangiora Bells’ is seeking musicians to join the handbell choir. We are a friendly group of handbell ringers who enjoy making music and entertaining at community groups.
If you would like to come and have a go at ringing handbells, please come along to one of our practice sessions. No commitment necessary if you decide that this is not for you.
An ability to read basic music notation preferred.
Practice days – Thursdays 1pm – 2.30pm
(beginning 19th February 2026)
In the lounge at Trinity Methodist Church
176 King Street
Rangiora
Clare Dolheguy
Phone 027 583 7504
claredoll6@gmail.com
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