Spirits on Apec watch

Ancestral spirits now preside over the Apec conference since the taurapa of a waka toa (stern post of a Maori war canoe) was erected and blessed by the Auckland tribe Ngati Whatua in the foyer of Auckland's Carlton Hotel yesterday.

The carved post, rich in Maori symbolism including swirls representing three legendary waves, will be the centrepiece of the powhiri welcoming Apec leaders on Sunday morning.

Kaumatua Danny Tumahai said the blessing would give spiritual content to the whole of the trade conference.