About the exhibition He Aa I Uta, He Aa I Tai: Weaving The Elements

We know that the elements are essential for survival but have also been reminded of their unforgiving power.  

In recent times, cyclones have devastated our kai, Meaning Close Food  filled wharenui Meaning Close Ancestral house  with silt and spread kooiwi Meaning Close Bones  from our urupaa Meaning Close Burial grounds across the whenua Meaning Close Land, earth, placenta . Our streets have become awa Meaning Close River , raging torrents sweeping away lives, while driving rain washes whenua Meaning Close Land, earth, placenta  away. It has buckled upwards too, spewing fire that sweeps in unstoppable waves fuelled by Taawhirimaatea, or the god of wind and storms, burning all in its path.  

These are indeed difficult times. 

In consequence the indomitable human spirit, our wairua Meaning Close Spirit , has prevailed, providing support for those affected and helping us to adapt to these extremes.  

Breathe deep and remember.  

Remember our tuupuna Meaning Close Ancestors

Also: Tūpuna, Tīpuna harnessing the power of aangi Meaning Close Air to fill sails and explore the expanse of Te Moana-nui-a-kiwa Meaning Close The Pacific Ocean . Recall their harnessing of ahi Meaning Close Fire to feed the whenua and the innovative redirection of wai  Meaning Close Water to capture tuna Meaning Close Eels .  

The elements, our atua Meaning Close God/gods can harm, they can also heal. 

A much better relationship with them is required for us to thrive. 

Members of the national Maaori weavers group, Te Roopu Raranga Whatu o Aotearoa, explore the elements, air, earth, fire, water and spirit. They support their woven creations with korero Meaning Close talk, stories, discussion, voice  about their making journey and the significance of this topic.