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| In common with
many other indigenous peoples Maori have a
special affinity for their natural environment.
Maori Sec themselves as related to all living
things through their whakapapa or genealogy Their whakapapa can be traced back to the parents or guardians of the natural world - Ranginni (sky father) and Papatuanuku (earth mother) In New Zealand early Maori lived on some of thc most beautiful islands in the world. The country was covered in rainforcst with a wide array of bird life, in this gentle, majestic environment they came to know the habits of all the plains and animals as well as the creatures of the sea. Mao.ri named the plants and aninials and also all the features of the land and coast. When European settlers arrived they brought with them their many animals and plants and cleared the land for farming But in many parts of New Zealand it is still possible to visit forests and coasts which have rcmained unchanged since pre-European times. It is fascinating to visit New Zealand’s forest and coastland with a Maori guide. You can see the natural world through a verydifferent set or eyes. The Maori world view is holistic and Maori are natural conservationists, believing In the spiritual value of all living things. It is an opportunity to take time away from our busy, modern life and visit a world 0f timeless values. Image
13 - Exploring Cape Brett, Northtand, with a
Maori guide |
