"Among Hotu Matua's last accomplishments were his attempts to dig wells (anga i te vai, TP:53) along the shore of Akahanga. My informants did not mention these endeavors, but since Easter Island has neither stream nor wells, the supply of fresh water, aside from the three crater lakes, presents a real problem (HM:281-292).

Recent trial excavations in the area of Akahanga have shown that this area was ideal for the establishment of wells. The dying king has his foster child bring him his last drink of water (vai maunga mo unu) from neighboring Hua Reva, a sure indication of the success of his last efforts to better the lot of the settlers (TP:55). After leaving the residence at Akahanga, Hotu Matua goes to the northern rim of the volcano Rano Kau." (Barthel 2)

At the rim of Rano Kau king Hotu falls on his face and dies. The king is a kind of reincarnation on earth of the sun, and appropriately taking a drink of water illustrates how his 'fire' (life force) is quenched. In Gb3-5 we should 'read' the king immersed in water, i.e. he has become a takaure, a spirit. He has returned to Hiva.