Whare:
* Whare rūma: Rectangular houses made from woven flax mats (tī kōuka) stretched over a framework of poles. They were the most common type of dwelling and could range in size from small family homes to larger communal structures.
* Whare tapawha: This type of whare was also rectangular but featured a steep roof supported by posts. It was often used as a meeting house or for ceremonies.
* Whare puni: A smaller, more temporary dwelling made from flax mats, often used for travel or when moving to a new location.
* Whare moana: These were beachside homes that were raised on stilts above the ground to avoid flooding.
Other dwellings:
* Pā: Fortified villages that housed numerous whare and were built for protection.
* Kura: Schools or training centres, often built in similar ways to whare rūma.
* Wharepuni: Storehouses used for storing food, tools, and other possessions.
Materials:
* Tī kōuka (flax): The most common material used for making mats and walls.
* Tōtara, Kauri, and other native timbers: Used for structural elements like posts, beams, and roof frames.
* Stone and mud: Used for floors and foundations in some cases.
It is important to note that the specific design and materials used in Māori housing varied significantly across different regions and time periods.