Auckland Council Libraries: For joy and entertainment

For joy and entertainment

Kawea e te rēhia

Waiata, haka, mahi tākaro (games and pastimes) and a variety of other activities designed to bring communities together in celebration. Let’s get this party started!

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Te mahi kete

Mick Pendergrast

Book

Te Mahi Kete gives detailed, step-by-step instructions, illustrated with numerous line drawings and black-and-white photographs, for preparing harakeke (flax) and plaiting two simple types of kete. An excellent read for those interested in raranga.

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Te kāhui o Matariki

Libby Hakaraia

Book

Te Kāhui o Matariki is a large-scale book containing contemporary artwork, photography, poetry and short writings including personal experiences of Matariki - the Māori New Year. This book provides a background to Matariki and how it's celebrated.

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Ngā taonga tākaro = Māori sports and games

Harko Brown

Book

More than 20 ancient Māori games and sports including poi, stick games, kites, ball games, board games, and more. Brown traces the history behind each game, and gives clear instructions, rules and how to create the equipment used for entertainment.

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Games and pastimes of the Maori

Elsdon Best

Book

Best provides an account of various exercises, games and pastimes of the Māori of New Zealand, as practised in former times; including some information concerning their vocal and instrumental music and various activities used to train and entertain.

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Te manu tukutuku

Bob Maysmor

Book

Covers the history and traditions, techniques and materials of the ancient kites and describes how contemporary artists and kite-makers have further developed the art. Included are easy instructions on how you can make your own, unique kite (manu).

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Māori weaving

Erenora Puketapu-Hetet

Book

This book is a much-loved text for students of Māori weaving and those interested in the art of raranga (weaving). It gives a unique perspective into the art of Māori weaving by contrasting both the technical skills required and cultural awareness.

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The rhythm and life of poi

Ngamoni Huata

Book

More than just a ball and string - the poi holds many narratives waiting to be shared. This book is all about the spiritual heritage of poi, the materials and how they were prepared, through to their use in ancient times and modern day applications.

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Ngā taonga tākaro. II, The matrix

Harko Brown

Book

Brown returns with part two of a series exploring various tākaro. This book is an enthralling educational journey into the whakapapa and contemporary uses for over 50 Māori games and activities that are sure to delight each and every participant.

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Māori games = Ngā mahi tākaro a te Māori

Colin Deed

Book

Let’s delve in to some of the ancient games played by Māori to not only pass the time and entertain, but used too to increase core skills required in battle and the like. Photos and illustrations bring this read to life while holding your attention.

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Taonga puoro = Singing treasures : the musical instruments of the Maori

Brian Flintoff

Book

Taonga puoro represent the many voices found within nature and connects the musician, listener and music to evoke and stimulate the senses and emotions. Together with the late Hirini Melbourne, Flintoff creates a surreal ambience sure to move you.

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Auckland Council Libraries:Book list Recommended reading lists about different topics and genres to help you find new books to read.