Clothing:
* Warmth and Protection:
* Kahu: The primary garment was the kahu, a cloak made from flax (harakeke), wool (from sheep or dogs), or feathers. The kahu provided warmth and protection from rain and wind.
* Piupiu: Men often wore a piupiu, a skirt made from flax fibers, for warmth and status.
* Tiki: For extra warmth, both men and women wore tiki (cloaks) made from feathers, usually from the kiwi, which were highly valued.
* Practicality:
* Flax (harakeke) clothing: Was durable and flexible, allowing for a range of activities. It could be woven into different textures for different purposes, such as fine garments for ceremonies or thicker material for everyday wear.
* Feathers: Offered excellent insulation and water resistance.
* Cultural Significance:
* Clothing was often adorned with intricate patterns and symbols, reflecting the wearer's status, tribal affiliation, and personal achievements.
Shelter:
* Whare: The traditional Maori dwelling, the whare, was a versatile structure designed for warmth and comfort.
* Materials: Built primarily from materials readily available in their environment, like timber, flax, reeds, and mud.
* Shape: The whare had a steep, pitched roof for drainage and a central fire pit for warmth.
* Orientation: The whare was often oriented to maximize sunlight and warmth.
* Flexibility:
* The whare could be built in various sizes, depending on the size of the family or group.
* Different types of whare were constructed for specific purposes, such as whare puni (fort), whare tapere (meeting house), and whare nui (large meeting house for ceremonies).
* Community:
* The whare was a central hub for community gatherings, sharing stories, and performing ceremonies.
How it all came together:
* Adaptability: Maori clothing and shelter were highly adaptable to the diverse climate and geography of New Zealand, with different materials and designs used for different regions and seasons.
* Resourcefulness: The ability to use resources efficiently and creatively was essential for survival.
* Connection to nature: The use of natural materials fostered a deep connection with the environment and its resources.
* Cultural Expression: Clothing and shelter weren't just practical; they were also a way to express cultural identity, social status, and spiritual beliefs.
Overall, the clothing and shelter of the Māori were not only practical but also reflected a deep understanding of their environment and a strong sense of community and cultural identity.