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Wānanga
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Our Mark of AuthenticityThe Te Puia Official Mark of Authenticity acts as an independent quality measure, guaranteeing the standard of workmanship across all taonga (treasures) produced by New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute. Te Poito (fishing net float) Carved in various shapes and sizes and stylising the human form, the poito was used traditionally by Māori as a floating marker buoy. Marine growth would form in the apertures and become phosphorescent at night, identifying the location of tribal fishing grounds. The concept of this design was developed by the Institute’s inaugural Master Carver, Hone Taiapa, and implemented by the organisation in 1967 to symbolise its legislated role to keep the arts and crafts traditions of Māori afloat. All arts and crafts carrying this trade mark have been designed and developed by the students, staff and tutors of Te Puia, the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.
Here at Te Puia we offer you the chance to take away traditional Māori carvings; beautiful handcrafted pieces made at the National Carving School. Look for the Te Puia Official Mark of Authenticity. We also accept carving commissions. |
