This exhibition features more than 140 whakairo (carvings) spanning seven centuries. Many have never been exhibited before.

Within the space, subtle wall colours of blue, pink, and green indicate different themes.

He tohu rangatira | Emblems of leaders (blue)

Here you’ll see taonga (treasures) that represent the mana (prestige) of chiefs – from the bargeboards of a pātaka whakairo (carved storehouse) to the prow of a waka taua (war canoe). The walls of this exhibition are inspired by pā tūwatawata – the palisade walls of a village.

Wānanga whakairo | Living knowledge (pink)

This area focuses on tools, contemporary carvers and how knowledge of whakairo is passed down through generations. Watch a video showing contemporary Master Carver Sam Hauwaho create the taonga on display nearby.

He mana tangata | Dignity in all realms (green)

Whakairo perfectly balance form and function. This zone shows how whakairo instil mana into taonga, from the everyday to the sacred. See intricately carved tattooing chisels, taonga puoro (musical instruments), weapons, and much more.

For the kids!

Children can follow the tohu (symbols) trail and match them with the surrounding whakairo. Or they can read the pūrākau (legends), including how carving came to Aotearoa.