Weaving and carving in wood, bone and greenstone, or pounamu, are important Māori traditions. Examples of taonga Māori (Māori treasures) can be seen at museums and galleries around the country.

Auckland Museum Home to He Taonga Māori, the Māori Treasures Gallery, and displaying over 2000 pieces – including the last great, magnificently carved waka war canoe to be used in battle.

Wellington Te Papa Tongarewa is New Zealand’s national museum. It contains a marae and works with iwi (tribal groups) to curate a changing exhibition programme of taonga. 

Waiwhetū Purchase your own Māori treasures at the settlement of Waiwhetū in Lower Hutt, where you can see artists-in-residence practising their crafts.

Hokitika Dubbed the greenstone capital of New Zealand, Hokitika showcases jade shops and artists’ studios where you can join workshops to make your own creation.