B.

Using the writing of Te Rangihīroa Sir Peter Buck as a starting point to talk about Te Rā, Anna-Marie White chairs a panel of Māori leaders, including Ranui Ngarimu and Jamie Tuuta, who explore what this taonga tuku iho tells us about ourselves and our future.

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū welcomes Te Rā, the only known customary Māori sail in existence. Woven from harakeke more than 200 years ago, and held in storage for many years at the British Museum, the homecoming of this taonga is a deeply significant moment for all New Zealanders. Revealing complex weaving technologies, Te Rā is a symbol of Māori skill, innovation and adaptation, and the importance of voyaging in Māori culture. This exhibition presents an opportunity for all New Zealanders to grow their understanding of this important part of our nation’s cultural heritage.

*The title for this talk is taken from the 1938 book Vikings of the Sunrise by Te Rangihīroa (Sir Peter Buck)