Creation of kites and kite flying was a great old-time Māori practice. Kites came in many types of design and were used for all sorts of purposes from general fun and games to more serious uses such as spiritual ceremonies amongst tohunga (priests).
My own fascination with flight along with my passion towards whakairo led me to carve this particular ‘manu pākau’ representing Rongo, atua of peaceful pursuits.
I decorated the aerofoil wing in a stepped on/off ‘poutama’ design representing the steps/levels towards Ranginui (Sky-Father), within these steps are painted kōwhaiwhai patterns representing the winds. The word ‘Manu’ means both bird and kite. Manu are seen as intermediaries between spiritual and physical realms.
Medium: Tōtara and Mataī wood, pāua shell inlays, hemp binding, feathers and paint
Dimensions: 1.2 metre wingspan
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