Maori Arts and Crafts RUATOKI CAMP, 1959

Forest and Bird, Issue 136, 1 May 1960, Page 5

Maori Arts and Crafts RUATOKI CAMP, 1959

BY

VIOLET A. RUCROFT

Tuesday, 20th January, was spent on the marae, when the campers were given instruction in the preparation of flax and kiekie, and in weaving a variety of articles still in general use by the Maori people of this district. In the case of kiekie a few head were brought along showing the natural state of the plant and, as the processes of boiling and dyeing are lengthy, prepared material showing each stage was on view with partly made kits and mats for further demonstration.

The discovery that a certain kind of mud was used for black dye surprised many, and at least one milk billy went home full of the odorous substance gathered from Kutarere.

Pingao was also used and sand dunes were later searched by the initiated to find this colourful aristocrat of seaside plants which provides that golden pattern in mats and kits. But far the greater number of campers were engaged in making rourous (food receptacles), kits, and headbands, while the intricacies of the piupiu were explained to any who felt their ambition ran to such length. A competition of articles made during the camp period was later judged by Mrs. Powhare and Mrs. Black and to our great delight our Australian member, Miss Given Buckland, carried off the honours in almost all the classes. Being a Guide instructor we feel sure that the arts and crafts of the Maori which she learned at Ruatoki will be introduced to guides in Australia. Later in the afternoon the women campers were graciously addressed in the hall by Mrs. Hakuru, president of the Maori Women’s Welfare League of the Ruatoki area. We should like to express once again our thanks to these ladies, who were so patient with fumbling pakeha fingers: Mesdames Powhare, Black, Rahi, and many other willing helpers from Ruatoki; Mesdames Jarman, Te Pou, Howell, and Pearson from Whakatane; Mrs- Paki Wharawira of Piripai; and Mrs. Collier, Wainui, who instructed in food and medical preparations.

An outstanding feature of the Historical Society’s day was the address given by the Rev. Wharetiri Rangi and the remarkable display of taiaha drill given by our friend Kino-te-Oti, an expert in this highly developed and fast disappearing skill. Ruatoki taught us many things, not the least being that we have much to learn and share from the two cultures of our country.