The Art of Maori Wood Carving

The origin of Maori woodcarving lies in the arrival of the first Polynesian canoes (waka) landing on the New Zealand shores in 1200 AD (estimate). A few hundred years later, aproximately around 1500 the unique distinctive Maori wood carving style had been developed.

Maori wood carvings are characterized by bold three-dimensional forms adorned with intricate, detailed designs. In Maori language this art form is called Whakairo Rakau, meaning; the Art of Woodcarving.

The typical designs represent traditional Maori culture and Maori legends. Also a large deal resembles remembrance of ancestors. Purpose of carving wood was to pass on tribal history, legends and stories of ancestors (whakapapa) This because the Maori had no written language (wood) carvings were an ideal means to capture historic events.

Some of the native woods commonly used are Kauri, Rimu and Totara wood. Objects subject to carving were porches of (meeting) houses, canoes but also smaller items such as walking sticks (tokotoko), weapons (such as the taiaha and wahaika), and ceremonial storage boxes. (waka huia)

A frequently occurring design are human like figures many of which have a provoking appearance . Their purpose was to ward of evil spirits as well as to scare off members of enemy tribes. For this reason they were placed strategically on the front of canoes and on houses. Many carvings were painted red, a sacred color in Maori culture.

Examples of the human-like figures are the tiki and tekoteko both with jutting tongue, also a sign of defiance. Heads were carved in different styles depending on the tribe and their geographical location. Examples are the Tai Tokerau style, Taranaki Style, and Wheku style.