"In his early years in New Zealand, Matiu Kauri [Matthew Cowley] came here often to study and learn the Māori language, meditate and commune with Heavenly Father," Elder O. Vincent Haleck said during a monument dedication. "It was the peaceful surroundings of this grove that blessed and helped give voice to his Māori language and love for the Māori people. We are honoured that the City Council and leaders of this community have chosen to name this grove the Matiu Kauri Grove.”
