Traditional Maori Carving Designs

Definitions ...

Click HERE
for a printable (Adobe Acrobat)
version of this page.

The Maori are a Polynesian people who have excelled in carving for centuries. The following is a short list of the traditional designs they have used. The figures are the simple versions — Maori artists would, of course, make their carvings very ornate.

Koru		From the tree fern, spiral representing New Life and Growth.
	Tiki	First Child or Ancestor. In feotal position. Strong Good Luck charm.
Heru		Ceremonial headdress for Maori man, nowadays, a unisex hair adornment.
	Hei Matau	Fish hook originally carved from Maui's Grandmother's jawbone. Used to fish up the North Island. Brings Good Luck and Prosperity.
Koropepe		Eel-type fish usually in motion.
	Manaia	Guardian of Spiritual Energy. Has the Head of a Bird, body of a Man and Tail of a Fish creating a balance of Sky, Earth and Sea.
Maripi		Flesh cutting knife made with sharks teeth. For ceremonial occasions.
	Hei Toki-Adze	Representing Power and Authority (often male).
Wakahuia		treasure box for Huia feathers, amulets, pendants and necklaces.
	Mere/Patu	Hand clubs. Symbolise Facing and Overcoming Life's Difficulties and Challenges.
Mokopeke		Mythical snake-like creature relating back to early traves through Polynesia.
	Roimata	Teardrop of Tears of Sadness
Taiaha		Long carved spear used in martial arts -- like combat.
	Tekoteko	Human-like figure from apex of meeting house (Wharenui). Usually portrays long departed Chief or Warrior.
Marakihau		Mythical deep sea monster with human form and long tubular tongue.
	Tuere	Carved prow of canoe or waka.
Taurapa		Carved stern post of Maori war canoe.