Contents
14. The Tiki
13. Common Carving Patterns
5. Symbols within the Marae 10. Color within the Culture
7. Carving History
1. History of the Marae 4. Marae: Sacred Sites of Maori Culture & Identity
History of the Marae
By Venere
The name “Marae” carries both cultural and historical significance. Often imbued with deep meanings, this name resonates within various societies and communities. Understanding the essence of the name “Marae” involves tracing its origins, historical development, popularity, and some notable personalities who bear this name. This article will delve into these aspects to paint a comprehensive picture of what “Marae” signifies.
Origins and Meaning
The term “Marae” has its roots in Polynesian culture, particularly within Maori traditions in New Zealand and other Pacific islands. In the Maori context, a “Marae” is a sacred communal place that serves as a hub for social, cultural, and spiritual activities. It is a space where important ceremonies, meetings, and gatherings occur. The word symbolizes community, heritage, and ancestry, embodying the values and traditions passed down through generations.
In other regions, the name “Marae” may have different connotations. For example, in some broader Polynesian contexts, it might refer to a ceremonial religious site. However, regardless of the specific geographical or cultural interpretations, the term consistently signifies a place of profound importance and connection.
History and Evolution
The historical development of the name “Marae” is deeply intertwined with the cultural practices and societal structures of Polynesian peoples. The concept of a Marae as a physical location has been central to the social fabric of communities, acting as a cornerstone for cultural preservation and continuity.
As migratory patterns and colonization introduced Polynesian cultures to wider audiences, the term “Marae” began to gain recognition beyond its original locales. Scholars and travelers documenting Polynesian societies often noted the importance of Marae, leading to an increased awareness and appreciation of its cultural significance in the global context.
With time, the name “Marae” has evolved, extending its influence into various domains, including literature, arts, and personal names. It has come to symbolize
Image of Tangonge, one of New Zealand’s earliest carvings. Credit: Auckland Museum’s He Taonga Te Maori gallery
not just a physical gathering place, but also an idea of interconnectedness and shared heritage.
Popularity and Distribution
The name “Marae” is not exceedingly common as a personal name but holds substantive cultural weight in its traditional contexts. Its popularity can be observed in specific regions, particularly where Polynesian communities are present, such as New Zealand, Hawaii, and other Pacific islands.
In recent years, the name has seen a slight uptick in use as people increasingly seek names with rich cultural and historical backgrounds. Although “Marae” is not a ubiquitous name, its unique sound and profound meaning make it appealing to parents looking for distinctive names with significant cultural relevance.
Notable Personalities
While the name “Marae” itself may not be widely adopted by famous individuals, the prominence of the concept within Polynesian culture means it is often referenced in various forms. For example, Maraelike structures and the cultural practices associated with them have been highlighted by notable cultural ambassadors, artists, and leaders from Polynesian communities.
Furthermore, institutions and foundations may use the name “Marae” to denote their commitment to cultural preservation, education, and community engagement. These entities serve as modern-day bearers of the name, continuing the legacy embodied by the traditional Marae.
Conclusions
The name “Marae” is steeped in cultural richness and historical depth. Originating from the sacred communal spaces of Polynesian societies, it symbolizes unity, heritage, and cultural continuity. Although not widely used as a personal name, its significance within its cultural context cannot be overstated. As awareness and appreciation for diverse cultural traditions continue to grow, the name “Marae” stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of communal heritage and shared history.
Image of Maori rock carving at Lake Taupo, New Zealand. Credit: Alex_11
3 THE MAORI MARAE
Marae: Sacred Sites of Maori Culture and Spirituality
The Maori worldview, steeped in the concept of whakapapa (genealogy), emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things. Marae are seen as tangible links to the ancestral realm, where spirits of the ancestors reside. Through elaborate carvings, intricate designs, and carefully placed stones, Marae serve as a physical manifestation of the ancestors’ presence, guiding and protecting the living.
Marae as a Tangible Link to the Ancestors
The concept of whakapapa is fundamental to understanding the significance of Marae. Every Maori individual is intricately connected to their ancestors through a lineage that stretches back through generations, linking them to the very origins of the universe. Marae serve as a visual reminder of this lineage, with their architecture and design often depicting key figures and events from the ancestral past. The ancestral spirits, known as atua, are believed to inhabit the Marae, lending power and guidance to those who gather there. The structures within a Marae, such as the wharenui (meeting house), are not merely buildings but symbolic representations of the ancestral lineage and the interconnectedness of the spiritual and physical worlds.
The Role of Marae in Ritual and Ceremony
Marae play a central role in Maori rituals and ceremonies, serving as focal points for spiritual connection, community gatherings, and the transmission of cultural knowledge. The most significant ceremonies, such as tangihanga (funerals) and hui (gatherings), are held on Marae, allowing the community to connect with their ancestral heritage and reaffirm their collective identity. During these ceremonies, specific rituals are performed, including karakia (prayers), waiata (songs), and haka (war dances), all of which are designed to honor the ancestors, seek their guidance, and ensure the well-being of the community. The intricate choreography and symbolic gestures of these rituals serve to reinforce the deep connection between the living and the ancestral realm, with the Marae serving as a sacred space for these interactions.
Marae as a Site of Community and Identity
Beyond their spiritual significance, Marae serve as vital centers for community cohesion and cultural identity. These spaces foster a sense of belonging, providing a platform for shared experiences, rituals, and celebrations that bind individuals together. Marae gatherings not only strengthen familial ties but also reinforce the collective identity of the iwi (tribe) or hapū (subtribe) to which they belong. The construction and maintenance of Marae are often collaborative efforts, with community members working together to ensure the preservation of their ancestral legacy. This shared responsibility
Mythology Worldwide
reinforces a sense of collective ownership, pride, and commitment to the well-being of the Marae and its associated traditions. Marae gatherings, whether for ceremonies, celebrations, or simply community meetings, provide opportunities for individuals to connect with their ancestors, their communities, and their shared cultural heritage.
The Impact of Colonization on Marae
The arrival of European colonists in New Zealand had a profound impact on Maori society, including the sanctity of Marae. The imposition of European laws, values, and practices challenged traditional ways of life, leading to the disruption of Marae practices and the erosion of their cultural significance.
Modern Interpretations of Marae Symbolism
In contemporary Maori society, Marae continue to hold profound significance, adapting to changing times while preserving their core values. The symbolism of Marae has evolved to encompass broader concepts of social justice, environmental sustainability, and the need to honor the past while striving for a brighter future. Marae have become platforms for raising awareness about social issues, advocating for indigenous rights, and promoting the preservation of Maori language and culture. They serve as spaces for reflection and dialogue, fostering a sense of shared purpose and responsibility among Maori communities.
Marae as a Source of Cultural Resilience
The resilience of Marae in the face of colonization and modern challenges is a testament to the enduring power of Maori culture and spirituality. These sacred sites continue to serve as sources of strength and inspiration for Maori communities, reminding them of their ancestral heritage and their ability to adapt and thrive in a changing world. Marae represent a commitment to maintaining cultural continuity, ensuring the transmission of knowledge, values, and traditions to future generations. They provide a framework for collective action, fostering a sense of purpose and shared identity that transcends individual differences.
The Future of Marae in Maori Society
Marae are not relics of the past but vibrant symbols of a living culture that continues to evolve and adapt to new realities. Their future is inextricably linked to the ongoing struggle for self-determination and the preservation of Maori language, culture, and identity. As Maori communities navigate the complexities of a globalized world, Marae will remain central to their cultural identity, serving as spaces for gathering, reflection, and action. They will continue to embody the values of whakapapa, mana, and tapu, providing a foundation for future generations to connect with their ancestors, their communities, and their shared heritage.
Symbols within the Marae
Windstar Cruises
What Is The Significance of a Marae?
In Māori culture, a marae is at the heart of the community. They consider a marae as their tūrangawaewae (a place to stand and belong, a sense of identity). Traditional Māori oratory, language, values and social etiquette are all fully expressed on the marae.
A marae is a home where ancestors are present and the Māori learn about the world and life during their younger years. Maraes host many religious and social gatherings such as āhuareka (celebrations), hui (meetings), tangi (funerals) and other important tribal events. These also serve as places to host educational workshops.
The marae is sacred to the living and a memorial to those who have passed on. As a result, the marae requires respect upon entering. The marae promotes social integration by encouraging identity, self-esteem, pride and social control.
Maraes are one establishment where Pākehā (a white New Zealander as opposed to a Māori person) can interact with Māori on Māori terms and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to live in a bicultural culture. A pōwhiri (formal welcome) is required to enter a marae.
Image of the Poupou. Credit: Jtosi
Image of the Tekoteko. Credit: Burn
A pōwhiri is a traditional introduction process that welcomes and allows guests and hosts to get acquainted and learn more about each other. Traveling to New Zealand and visiting a marae, you’ll experience this intimate tradition.
About The Physical Structure of a Marae
A marae is typically rectangular and bordered by a fence made of stones or wooden posts, creating a boundary of the marae and having buildings for specific functions. The facilities have intricate decorations, traditional and elaborate carvings, and sculptures.
The intricate sculptures that frequently cover their exteriors and interiors convey stories and trace ancestors.
As mentioned previously, a marae consists of a few key buildings and structures — let’s learn more about two of the critical buildings:
Wharenui
The marae and the wharenui have a complementary relationship — together, they are the focal point of the community, with the wharenui as the central building. A tribal meeting place that represents a particular ancestor of the tribe includes these features:
Tekoteko (carved figure) represents the ancestor’s head and sits on the rooftop in front.
Maihi (front barge boards) represents the arms to welcome visitors.
Amo (upright carvings on either side of the wharenui) represents the legs.
Tāhuhu (ridge pole running down the length of the roof) represents the spine.
Heke (rafters) that reaches from the tāhuhu to the poupou (carved figures on the walls) represents the ribs.
Wharekai
The wharekai are the dining halls or eating locations where the “inner man” is satisfied. The wharekai mainly hosts community meals, although other events may also occur there. The wharekai exists independently, not always as a physical reality, but in certain circumstances as an idea or belief. Tapu (sacred quality) dictates where people can and cannot eat food and where they can and cannot consume drinks. Food is noa (a common element) and the polar opposite of tapu to the Māori. The tipuna whare (meeting/ancestral home) has tapu, and people cannot eat in it. However, the wharekai is tapu-free — the two are at different ends of the spectrum.
Image of the Tāhuhu and the Heke. Credit: Chiara Coetzee
Image of the Maihi. Credit: Aaron Choi
By Brett Graham
Carving History
Symbolism of carving materials
The trees used to provide wood for whakairo (carving) represented Tāne, the god of the forest, and carving timber was sometimes referred to as the embodiment of Tāne. Special rituals were required to fell trees such as tōtara for carving. Once transformed into poupou (carved posts), the timbers took on the properties of the chiefs and other figures they represented.
The pāua-shell used in the eyes of the figures came from the sea, the source of carving knowledge. The red ochre used to colour completed carvings was also worn as a personal decoration by high-born men and women, since red was the colour of high rank.
Adzes and chisels
A carver’s toolkit included a number of adzes and chisels in various shapes and sizes. The other essential tool was a mallet, with a head made from wood or whalebone. This tool has remained almost unaltered since earliest times. An adze (with a long handle at right-angles to the blade) was used for roughing out the basic shapes, and short-handled chisels were then used to carve the fine details. Traditionally, these tools were made from stone and pounamu (greenstone or jade). They acquired some of the tapu associated with their owner, and no one else could use them without the carver’s permission.
Metal tools
Metal tools could be made much sharper and held their edge better than stone or jade, and iron for making tools was in high demand among carvers from the first contacts with Europeans. Nails, barrel hoops, bayonets and carpenters’ drills were all adapted for use in carving.
An art of subtraction
The Māori carver worked within the bounds of the piece of wood chosen for a specific work. A head and limbs were never added later, but shaped from the same piece of wood as the trunk of a figure. So a carver always removed wood to make his poupou, canoe prows, maihi (bargeboards of a meeting house) or other pieces.
Carving rituals
The act of carving was a ritual with its own prohibitions. Chips and shavings could be brushed away, but not blown off by the carver. They could not be used as fuel for a cooking fire because of the cultural prohibition against combining sacred objects with food.
Carving technique
Carving was, and is, hard physical work. It began with the carver standing astride or alongside a selected piece of timber and adzing out the required shape. This was traditionally done without preliminary
Whakairo (Maori Carving). Credit: North Tech
drawings or other markings on the wood – carvers carried the completed design in their heads. Next, the carver sat beside his work to add the detailed decoration with a mallet and chisel. Large projects such as war canoes or meeting houses were usually the combined efforts of a number of carvers working together, under the overall direction of a master carver.
Traditional training Traditionally, a novice carver was expected to spend up to 20 years becoming expert in all aspects of the art of carving. A mistake committed while carrying out work, or in the rituals associated with it, was seen as life-threatening.
Maori Carving Tools. Credit: Florilegius
9 THE MAORI MARAE
Color within The Culture
By Matariki
The Meaning of Black (Kārangaranga) in Māori Culture
In Māori culture, black is a powerful color with deep symbolic meaning. It represents the potential for creation, the void, and the unknown—a connection to Te Kore, the state of nothingness from which all things are created in Māori cosmology. In this sense, black is tied to the origins of life and the vast potential that lies in the unseen.
Black is also a color associated with authority and prestige. It is often seen in traditional cloaks and carvings, symbolizing mana (prestige) and the strength of leaders. Black is commonly used in tā moko (Māori tattooing), where it denotes the wearer’s heritage and rank. The deep, bold lines of black ink in tā moko hold significant meaning, conveying a person’s lineage, status, and connection to their ancestors.
In addition to these associations, black carries connotations of death and the afterlife. It is often used in mourning rituals and funerary ceremonies, symbolizing the passage of life into the spirit world. Black represents the transition between the physical world and the spiritual realm, acknowledging the cycle of life and death.
In modern times, black remains a strong and meaningful color in Māori art and culture. It is often used in contemporary design, including in clothing and artwork, where it continues to carry its traditional associations with authority, power, and the mysteries of creation.
The Significance of Red (Whero) in Māori Culture
Red is one of the most important colors in Māori culture, symbolizing life force, vitality, and blood. It is often connected to the essence of life itself, representing the energy that flows through all living things. In many Māori traditions, red is considered a sacred color due to its association with blood, which is seen as a life-giving substance.
Red has a strong connection to Māori mythology. In the creation story, red represents the blood of Ranginui (Sky Father) and Papatuanuku (Earth Mother) when they were separated to create the world. This story imbues red with meanings of sacrifice, separation, and creation, making it a potent color in rituals and ceremonies.
One of the most sacred forms of red is kokowai (red ochre), a pigment made from iron-rich earth. Kokowai is traditionally used in Māori carvings, body art, and ceremonial objects. It is believed to have protective properties, and was often applied to the skin or carved surfaces to symbolize strength, spiritual power, and protection. Warriors would sometimes cover themselves in kokowai before going into battle to invoke courage and protection.
Red is also the color of warfare and courage in Māori culture. It is often associated with warriors and symbolizes the strength and bravery required in battle. The color red was used in the traditional war dance known as haka, where it represented the fierce energy and bloodshed that could occur in combat.
Today, red continues to be an important color in Māori art and architecture, particularly in wharenui (meeting houses) where it is used to represent the ancestors and the spirit world. The use of red in modern Māori culture remains a testament to its powerful historical and spiritual significance.
11 THE MAORI MARAE
The Use of Color in Māori Ceremonial and Ritual Practices
Color plays a crucial role in Māori ceremonial and ritual practices, serving as symbols of spiritual power, identity, and ancestry. From birth to death, the use of colors in rituals reflects their deeper meanings within Māori culture and the connection between the physical and spiritual realms.
In tā moko (traditional tattooing), colors are used not just for decoration but to convey identity, lineage, and status. Black, the most common color in tā moko, represents the strength and authority of one’s ancestors. Red is occasionally incorporated into tā moko, symbolizing bloodlines, courage, and spiritual protection. The placement and combination of colors within these tattoos communicate the wearer’s connection to their whakapapa (genealogy) and spiritual heritage.
During pōwhiri (welcoming ceremonies), colors are used in the garments, feathers, and cloak designs worn by participants to express tribal identity, rank, and the spiritual significance of the event. Black, red, and white are often featured prominently, as they are considered sacred colors representing different aspects of Māori spirituality and ancestral connections. These colors often appear in the kākahu (cloaks) worn by leaders or elders, symbolizing their authority and protection over the people.
In funerals (tangihanga), the color white is often used to symbolize purity, peace, and the transition of the spirit into Te Pō (the afterlife). Mourners may wear white, and white feathers are often included in the funeral decorations as symbols of spiritual protection and guidance for the deceased. In this context, color plays a key role in helping the community navigate the transition between life and death.
Colors are also significant in blessings and cleansing rituals. Green, representing nature and fertility, is often incorporated into rituals related to agriculture or gardening. Blue, symbolizing the ocean and water, is used in water-based cleansing rituals to purify and bless individuals, homes, or new ventures.
In kapa haka performances, color becomes a visual representation of unity and cultural pride. Traditional garments are adorned with specific colors that connect the performers to their tribal identity and history. These vibrant displays of color enhance the spiritual and emotional impact of the performances, bringing the audience closer to the spiritual traditions and ancestral stories being shared.
Overall, the use of color in Māori ceremonies and rituals is a powerful way to maintain spiritual balance, honor ancestors, and uphold cultural traditions. Through color, Māori people continue to express their identity, spirituality, and connection to the land, ensuring that these important symbols remain an integral part of their cultural practices.
New Zealand Traditional Maori Roof. Credit: George Burba
Common Carving Patterns Mountain Jade
Manaia - The Manaia symbol is said to be a messenger between the living and the dead. They say this is because it’s always carved in profile, with one half of its body in this realm, the other half in the realm of the dead. It was traditionally carved with the tail of a fish, body of a man, and head of a bird but nowadays there are many stylized versions of this symbol lending themselves to the artist’s design capabilities. A lot of people wear the Manaia symbol as a personal guardian with some saying it can protect against evil.
Matau - The fish hook symbol is said to represent prosperity and safe travel over water. It’s a clever design because it incorporates both the fish and fish hook motif into one design. Traditionally Maori were very reliant on the bounty they caught from the sea to survive. It constituted a large amount of their daily food needs and with it Maori flourished as a people. Maori had a very strong connection to Tangaroa, god of the sea and attributed this abundance to him.
Koru - In pounamu carving the koru is said to represent new beginnings, growth and regeneration. We know it symbolizes the fern frond seen in New Zealand’s native bush because of a Maori proverb that speaks of rebirth and growth: “Ka hinga atu he tete-kura - ka hara-mai he tete-kura” “As one fern frond dies - one is born to take it’s place”.
Pikorua - The twist, or ‘pikorua’ as it is known in New Zealand, is a relatively new Maori symbol with design roots in nature. It’s said to represent the path of life and symbolize the strong bond between two loved ones. It’s a powerful expression of loyalty because the arms of the twist have no end point, just like lifelong relationships.
Tiki - The tiki symbol is said to represent Tiki, the first man in Maori myth. As time passed and the owner of the hei tiki pounamu carving died, it was passed down through the family. This process of succession increased the mana (power or prestige) of the Hei Tiki. Many well known hei tiki were named, and so respected that they would be acknowledged by name as if living, when the wearer entered the Marae. So their main function was to connect deceased family members to the living by being worn as a sign of remembrance.
The Tiki
Tikis were and still are made by the Maoris out of NZ greenstone, a type of Jade which is highly valued. Some have paua shell inlaid around the eyes. Tikis represent either Gods or Ancestors. It is forbidden to steal a Tiki but if one is found it may be kept. This was found in Aukland’s King Country by a farmer before WW11. It is an intensely religious object, which speaks of the ubiquitous nature of spirituality among all races and cultures; of the human need to feel connected to something outside ourselves and to use precious materials to make something that can be treated with reverence.
Maori Jade Tiki Carving Credit: Indiana University
Art Museum
The British Museum
New Zealand Wood Carving.
Credit: Goddard Photography
IN THIS ISSUE
Are articles that explain the Māori Marae, its significance and its purpose. The Māori Marae Magazine highlights the Maori culture. Included are: History of the Marae Symbols within the Marae Color within the Culture Common Carving Pattern