Māori language resources in the hub ❘ Māori language materials comprise the collection

In the heart of Aotearoa New Zealand, a rich tapestry of culture, science, and tradition unfolds. Here are some fascinating stories that highlight the blend of these elements.

The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa houses the largest collection of Maori textiles, meticulously curated by Rangi Te Kanawa. Te Papa's collection offers a glimpse into the intricate world of Maori textiles, a vital part of the nation's heritage.

Rangi's work extends beyond preservation, as he strives to prevent the deterioration of harakeke kākahu (flax cloth) to safeguard these taonga tuku iho (treasures passed down) and their valuable intellectual property for future generations.

Elsewhere, the Auckland War Memorial Museum's carving collection has a remarkable story of its own. A pare (lintel) from the collection fell and shattered in the 1980s. However, the rebuild of Pare 5168 was a painstaking project that brought together conservationists from the Auckland Museum and carvers Bernard Makoare and Lyonel Grant. The restored pare now stands as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of these artists.

For those interested in the natural world, a suite of resources called "Monitoring birds and citizen science - Aroturuki i ngā manu me te pūtaiao kirirau" has been developed alongside kura (schools). This resource empowers kaiako (teachers) and tauira (students) to immerse themselves in learning about the birdlife in our environment.

Another valuable resource, "Ngā rākau", is available in a bi-lingual format, extensively illustrated with images and diagrams in both te reo Māori and English. This resource serves as a comprehensive guide to the world of woodwork, bridging the gap between the English and Maori languages.

The Science Learning Hub team, based at the University of Waikato, has curated a collection of resources related to opportunities for using te reo Māori. These resources aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of science in te reo Māori.

Moreover, Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington hosts a wide range of physics experiments in both te reo Māori and English. This initiative encourages the use of te reo Māori in scientific contexts, promoting language preservation and cultural integration.

Finally, let's not forget the star compass (kāpehu whetū), a tool that shows where the stars will rise and set on the celestial equator, slightly different for Aotearoa's horizon. The star compass also shows some stars as they align with their houses, offering a unique perspective on the night sky.

These stories are a testament to the rich cultural heritage and scientific innovation in Aotearoa New Zealand. Each tale highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating our unique identity while fostering a deeper understanding of the world around us.

Māori language resources in the hub ❘ Māori language materials comprise the collection