The Lawnmower Men of Kapu

Atawhai is a boy on the verge of manhood. He is a favorite of his Aunties, and he in turn adores them. But the Aunties have grown old and he fears they may lose their ability to keep the Marae, the communal gathering place of the tribe, alive. Atawhai has been told that the marae meeting house breathes life when the  families gather there.

Atawhai is counting on his three Uncles to help the Aunties. But the Uncles have a major falling out with each other. Atawhai feels powerless to help his Aunties, or intervene in his Uncles’ dispute.

But his Aunties are much wiser than he thinks. Even stubborn men can be taught a lesson when it is done with love.

Atawhai witnesses a timeless tale of his people. He learns a valuable lesson about family and tradition; and his place in both.