Story: Māori creation traditions

The koru

The koru

The koru, which is often used in Māori art as a symbol of creation, is based on the shape of an unfurling fern frond. Its circular shape conveys the idea of perpetual movement, and its inward coil suggests a return to the point of origin. The koru therefore symbolises the way in which life both changes and stays the same.

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Te Ara - The Encyclopedia of New Zealand
Photograph by Carl Walrond

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How to cite this page:

Te Ahukaramū Charles Royal, 'Māori creation traditions - Common threads in creation stories', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/2422/the-koru (accessed 19 March 2024)

Story by Te Ahukaramū Charles Royal, published 8 Feb 2005