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 Maori Art
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 The Polynesian ancestors of the Maori arrived in New Zealand about 1500 years ago, sailing from central Polynesia. They travelled south from tropical volcanic islands and atolls to much larger islands with a temperate climate.

Maori experimented with their new environment and a sophisticated material culture developed. They brought with them their animals and plants, developed large gardens and were keen fishermen and hunters. New Zealand’s forests were full of bird-life, and these became part of their diet.

Carving and weaving skills arose from the practical requirements of their lifestyle. The need for fibre for clothing, ropes and other uses, was met by the weaving of flax and other natural fibres. Hard New Zealand jade (pounamu) was made into weapons and carving implements. Native wood was carved into spiritual objects that adorned Maori meeting houses (wharenui) and canoes (waka).

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Carver, NZ Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Rotorua

Today there are many Maori weavers, carvers, and other artisans, and Maori are proud of their traditions. If you visit Rotonia, the New Zealand Maori Arts and Craft Institute provides an opportunity for you to watch Maori carvers and weavers at work, and buy the beautiful woven products and carvings they produce. Shops in many other centres throughout New Zealand also sell unique Maori arts.

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Weaver, NZ Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Rotorua

Maori also practise western crafts. New Zealand is proud of several exceptional Maori potters. Most craft galleries display works by Maori artisans which you can buy.

 

Nga mahi whakairo, nga mahi a Rua.
The art of carving is the art of Rua.
(Rua brought back the art of carving from Tan garoa, god of the sea.)