Ngā Rauropi Whakaoranga

pongo, pōtango, turitaka, pongi (a dark variety - Williams 1971) 

Taro cultivars grown and used in the North - Bay of Islands, Hokianga, Kaitaia. Those named are the best kinds. Pongo and Turitaka have "a pleasing scent". They are also grown on the East Coast and in Hawkes Bay. Pōtango is a very superior sort and greatly prized. The three were eaten as popoa - sacred food used by tohunga on the death of chiefs. Also eaten on the Iriiringa - the ceremonial naming of a newly-born chief's child; pigeons eaten with them as a relish (Colenso 1880).

Pōtango means "very dark" (Williams).