Tekoteko are wooden carved human-like figures commonly representing Maori tribal ancestors and in general protection and guardianship. Historically these figures were placed on the gable of (meeting) houses (wharenui) but there are also freestanding tekoteko.
The tekoteko on the photo right represents Kupe, according to Maori legends the discoverer of New Zealand. This tekoteko is situated on the ‘Te Whare Runanga Marae’ meeting house at Waitangi. (Waitangi is the place where several Maori chiefs signed the Waitangi Treaty with the British Crown in 1840.)
Courtesy photo  by olearyci | Creative …

Taniwha is a mythological creature living in the sea, rivers, pools, swamps and underwater caves. Their habitat was especially located near ominous places. These legendary Maori beings are both perceived as hostile beings as well as guardians (kaitiaki) of individuals or tribes. Taniwha have the ability to shift shape. Once in the water they could appear as sharks, giant squids, or big sea snakes while on land they turned into giant lizzards or even dragons. The fierce creatures were feared by many.
One legend, titled “The Taniwha of Kaipara”, illustrates the …

Whakairo rakau is the Maori art of wood carving. Whakairo means carving and rakau stands for wood. Whakairo rakau was considered a tapu practice which was traditionally carried out by men. Tapu, in this context, means that the practice of carving had to meet a  certain set of rituals in order to meet supernatural standards and prevent bad luck from happening. (Roughly translated tapu means both ‘prohibited’ as well as ‘sacred’.)
This art form is reflected in the typical red painted wooden houses, canoes, statues (totem poles), and …