Shane Poihipi-Paul

The paddle or hoe was the means of propulsion for the Māori waka (canoe). While the hoe was primarily a paddle, it also doubled as a weapon when the need arose. Carved paddles were the property of the chief and were highly valued. The hoe came in different styles and the handles and blades differed […]

Papahou are predominantly made to house small, treasured belongings and were historically owned by people of high-standing within their tribe. Papahou were highly prized and carefully treasured as they were passed between generations as heirlooms.

The taiaha is a long, slender hand weapon usually made from native hardwood – or in some instances whalebone – and is usually between 1.2 metres (3.9ft) and 2 metres (6.5ft) long. The point is carved to represent the human tongue (arero), above which is the forehead, eyes and upper lip, followed traditionally by a […]

The paddle or hoe was the means of propulsion for the Māori waka (canoe). While the hoe was primarily a paddle, it also doubled as a weapon when the need arose. Carved paddles were the property of the chief and were highly valued. The hoe came in different styles and the handles and blades differed […]

Kumete or bowls were used for storing and serving food. They came in an assortment of sizes, depths and shapes, and were used in formal settings to impress high-standing manuhiri (visitors). Many kumete acquired personal names and were passed from one generation to another.