The Flu Epidemic 1915 – 1919
Throughout the 1880s and 1890s the Māori population in Waikanae dwindled. Diseases such as tuberculosis and measles changed the face of the landscape.
The old settlements were deserted and old burial grounds and cultivation areas had long since become green farming pastures and housing areas for the newly developed Waikanae community.
In 1915, the Kāpiti Coast district was hit by the flu epidemic, which struck a mighty blow to the people of Waikanae both Māori and Pākehā alike.
To prevent the spread of disease members of the Waikanae community met with our people to seek permission to inter those who had passed away as a result of the flu epidemic.
Permission was granted and a mass grave was excavated within the Takamore cemetery.
The deceased were brought via the original access ways to the Takamore cemetery via horse and cart.
Two mass burial graves were dug; the main hollow to the northern side of the cemetery is the location of one of these holes. This was the burial place for the babies and children.
The other mass burial grave was dug just to the west of the Takamore cemetery fence line. This was a mass burial grave for the adults and elderly.
The deceased were buried in accordance with the wishes of the township.