Series Classification: G (General Programmes)
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Episode 2: The Story of Te Awe - Taumata Māreikura (The Weavers)
During the second phase (2017-2019), as part of our Mātauranga Māori approach, Auckland Museum partnered with our Taumata Māreikura, a group made up of some of Aotearoa’s most skilled and experienced weavers.
Members of the Taumata Māreikura (expert weavers). Back row: Awhina Tamarapa, Hemoata Henare, Dr Maureen Lander, Rangi Te Kanawa. Seated: Christina Wirihana, Kahutoi Te Kanawa, Matekino Lawless. Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
For every momo (object grouping), we hosted a wānanga with the Taumata Māreikura, where we all looked at a selection of taonga and provided space for discussions to happen. These discussions helped us to confirm the kupu (terms) that we use and provided a space in which to tease out tikanga (protocols).
Taumata Māreikura members in wananga (discussion) with Te Awe team to consider correct terminology for various kete (baskets) types. Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
As customary practitioners, the Taumata Māreikura have a wealth of knowledge that enriches our databases and museum practices. Greater contextual knowledge about the harvesting and preparation of weaving materials, weaving processes, use, and storage of taonga informed our decisions through every step of the project.
Auckland Museum staff Jenna Dudley and Conor Tulloch discussing the storage and care of a kete muka (woven flax fibre bag) with textile conservator Rangi Te Kanawa. Her sister Kahutoi Te Kanawa is inspecting another kete muka on the table. Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
Christina Wirihana, Awhina Tamarapa, Rangi Te Kanawa and Dr Maureen Lander deep in thought. Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
Awhina Tamarapa, Lisa McKendry, Dr Maureen Lander, Hikitia Harawira, Rangi Te Kanawa and Christina Wirihana observing another piece of work. Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
Awhina Tamarapa closely identifying taonga. Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
Close up magnified shot of refined weaving. Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
Christina Wirihana and Kate Blair closely inspecting kete muka (flax fibre bag) made with kiwi and kākā feathers. Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
Christina Wirihana and Lisa McKendry in discussion. Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
Christina Wirihana, Matekino Lawless, Dr Maureen Lander, Rangi Te Kanawa, Lisa McKendry and Awhina Tamarapa discussing a kahuhuruhuru (feather cloak). Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
Christina Wirihana looking at the back of a korowai (cloak). Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
Kahutoi Te Kanawa, Te Hemo Ata Henare, Maureen Lander, Lisa McKendry and Charlie Charlick closely observing the (poka) shaping of a kaitaka (cloak). Photo: Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum
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Tāmaki Paenga Hira / Auckland War Memorial Museum Photo: Auckland War Memorial Museum
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