Otaki, that rollest in thy pride,

First  among the rivers far and near,

Little streamlet, glowing blue and clear,

Ocean, with your strong imperious tide.

Russet bushes, sandhills waste and wide,

Pointed flax blades, shining vivid green,

Scarlet spotted spiders, rarely seen

Save by those who know where you abide.

Grey and orange grass, that creeps to bind

Shifting sands and bid them stay and rest,

Dear and lovely are you all in kind.

Each is touched with a peculiar grace;

And the soul that loves and watches, best

Learns the wonders f this happy place.