Natural fibers:
* Harakeke (New Zealand flax): The most common material for cloaks, especially for everyday wear. Harakeke fibers were stripped, beaten, and woven into strong and durable cloth.
* Tī Kōuka (Cabbage Tree): Used for finer cloaks, particularly those worn by chiefs. The fibers were stripped, softened, and often dyed with natural pigments.
* Toetoe (toetoe grass): Used for rougher cloaks, often for work or war.
* Neinei (hemp): A strong fiber used for cloaks, particularly in the northern regions.
* Wharariki (bulrush): Used for lining cloaks or making mats for warmth.
Animal materials:
* Kaka (New Zealand Parrot): Feathers were used for decoration, particularly on cloaks worn by chiefs and warriors.
* Kiore (native rat): Fur was used for warmth and decoration, especially in colder regions.
* Dogskin: Sometimes used for cloaks, though less common than other materials.
Other:
* Pāua shell: The iridescent shell was used for decoration, adding beauty and prestige to cloaks.
The color of the cloaks also varied depending on the materials used and the region. Natural dyes were extracted from plants, minerals, and insects, creating shades of brown, red, yellow, black, and white.
Significance:
Maori cloaks were more than just clothing; they were powerful symbols of identity, status, and cultural heritage. They were often passed down through generations, carrying stories and ancestral connections.
It's important to note that the specific materials and designs of kōhuru varied widely throughout Aotearoa (New Zealand), reflecting the diverse cultural traditions and resources of different tribes.