Te Huringa – The Turning (jan 1, 1800 – 2h 30min, oct 30, 2025 y)

Description:

Early colonial contact and the introduction of iron and new fibre meant Māori were able to achieve and expand on artforms. Carving became more sculptural and Māori became more confident in scale.

Designs became less about form and more intensive in detail through pākati and various cuts as carvers explored new freedom in the use of iron . Timber became more easier for carvers to cut and achieve more 3D sculputural effects.

This was a time of significant change for Māori socially and politically through the inclusion of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and introduction of muskets which would change the landscape of Aotearoa for years to come. Tāonga made during the 19th century were often collected by ethnologists and museums spiking a demand in trade for authentic Māori artefacts.

Many aspects of new european culture in clothing and architecture became more incorporated. An active industry at this time was also the flax trade where Māori exported over 32,000 tonnes at its peak.

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