He Toi Whakairo: The Art of Maori Carving at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
He Toi Whakairo
The Art of Maori Carving
August 29, 2026 — August 2031
He toi whakairo, he mana tangata.
Where there is artistic excellence, there is human dignity.
– Māori leader Piri Sciascia (Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāi Tahu)
Experience over 140 whakairo spanning seven centuries – many never exhibited before. He Toi Whakairo showcases creativity, ancestral narratives, and contemporary innovation. Every carving is an expression of artistic excellence and mana.
This major long-term exhibition celebrates the dynamic artform of whakairo. He Toi Whakairo is one of the most comprehensive displays of carving since Te Maori — the groundbreaking 1984-86 exhibition that toured the United States and Aotearoa New Zealand.
Protected within the walls of a pā tūwatawata, taonga tell the story of this living, ever-changing artform. Trace whakairo’s artistic journey from its Pacific origins over 700 years ago to contemporary carvers.
Follow the tohu trail to learn more about specific designs and patterns. Watch a video of contemporary leading carver Sam Hauwaho at work. Discover the teachings of different Tohunga Whakairo and how they inspired others to pick up the chisel. See innovative works by wāhine carvers that expand the idea of carving as a male-only artform.
From the smallest carved matau to the grandest wharenui, experience the mauri of whakairo.
