We have some words:


1. When the Tui sits in the Kowhai tree
and the sun tips the mountain tops with gold
when the Rata blooms in the forest glade,
and the hills glow with sunny tints untold.
I love to roam through bush and fern
and hear the Bellbird sing
and feel the touch of the wind on my face
while the joy in my heart does ring.

2. There are some who long for coral sands
and some for wind-swept plains
while others roam the ocean wide
then pine for home again.
But give to me the care-free life
by mountain, lake or shore
of the lovely land of the Long White Cloud,
Our Homeland Aotearoa.

And we have a tune here
but the question is, what is the tune - a hymn, a folksong? And who wrote the words and/or set it to that tune???
I believe it was in school music books in the 50s or 60s but although the tune is vaguely familiar, I can't place it.
Maybe Willow Mackie?
John Archer of NZ Folk is looking for answers.
Thanks,
Robyn