Story: Walking tracks

Paraerae (sandals)

Paraerae (sandals)

To protect their feet on long cross-country journeys, Māori wore sandals made of flax or cabbage-tree leaves. There were different types for particular conditions – the heavy, double-plaited sole was designed for rocky terrain. Flax was also used to make rain capes and kawe (packs) to carry loads.

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Otago Museum
Reference: D24-576-6

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How to cite this page:

Jock Phillips, 'Walking tracks - Māori highways', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/12794/paraerae-sandals (accessed 24 April 2024)

Story by Jock Phillips, published 24 Sep 2007, updated 1 Apr 2016