Maori Rock Art

OVERVIEW

View ancient Māori cave paintings at a cultural center and in limestone caves and come away with a deeper understanding of the artistry of these early storytellers. The Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre holds eight slabs of rock adorned with Māori art that were cut from the caves more than a century ago. They have been returned to their rightful tribal owners and are now on display to show some of the common motifs in rock art. Mythical creatures, animal figures and abstract patterns are among the most common subjects depicted. Contemporary tribal art inspired by these timeless forms are also displayed. Seeing undisturbed rock art in their original cave sites at Opihi will be even more revealing, especially as the guide interprets the sacred images that reflect the daily lives and spiritual beliefs of the Māori. Extinct avian species such as flightless moas and massive pouakai eagles are among the images.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Gain an overall understanding of Māori rock art at the Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre.
• See slabs of rock art cut from their original locations in caves more than a century ago.
• View rock art left in situ in the Opihi limestone caves.
• Learn what the rock art images represent and what they reveal about the early Māoris.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.