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Story: Moriori

Tree carving

Tree carving

Moriori ancestors made carved images on the trunks of kopi (karaka) trees. Many of these carvings, or dendroglyphs, survive today. They have powerful spiritual associations, although their meanings are debated.

About this item

Alexander Turnbull Library, Kathleen Joan Silcock Collection (PAColl-1964)
Reference: PAColl-1964-27

Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, National Library of New Zealand, Te Puna Matauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

How to cite this page:

Denise Davis and Māui Solomon. 'Moriori', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, updated 2-Sep-11
URL: http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/moriori/1/3