Piki Ake [Robert Sullivan]

Pike Ake (climb) recalls Tawhaki's journey into the heavens. His blind kuia called 'Piki ake!' as he climbed the magic vine. This call is part of a karakia that gives strength and lends support at times of stress.

Shebang [David Howard]

What's the story? The opening poem was composed by a jumped-up teenager who quoted C.K. Stead; the closing poem was grabbed out of Everest-thin air by a middle-aged flaneur. If poetry is 'about' faith then Shebang is the history of his leaping – out of the smoke into the flame.