We are learning how to tell our story

through traditional maori tukutuku art.

Tukutuku panels
Traditional maori art form used to
decorate the walls of the wharenui the meeting house. They usually tell
a story using visual symbols.
They are made by lining stalks of
wood horizontally and vertically, then
these are stitched together by
weaving harakeke (flax) or other
fibres to create patterns.
Some tukutuku panels take up to 900
hours to make!!!

Tukutuku panels in the wharenui

Patiki Based on the diamond shape of a flounder.

Represents prosperity, provision and abundance.

Poutama Representative of steps that tell a story of striving

upwards, knowledge, and education.

Kaokao Symbolises strength and unity. The strength you

get from your friends and whanau and the
strength you get from God.

Purapura whetu Representative of those special people in your life

who have passed away.
Looks like a star.

Koru Symbolises life. Might be used to represent the

number of people in your whanau as offshoots from
your parents (main koru). Might represent yourself,
or God