Tukutuku gracing the walls of the United Nations in New York will provide an invaluable opportunity for Māori Arts and Culture to be promoted globally, Te Puni Kōkiri Chief Executive Michelle Hippolite said today.

Mrs Hippolite said Te Puni Kōkiri was proud to support the project which will see 50 Turapa (completed panels of Tukutuku weaving) enhance the New Zealand Wall at the newly refurbished United Nations’ headquarters.

The Turapa were on show in Rotoiti today – the only chance to see them in New Zealand before they are transported to their new home in New York.

“Those who see these panels in New York will experience art that embodies the innovation, vitality and history of Māori culture.

“I congratulate all the weavers from Te Rōpu Rāranga Whatu o Aotearoa who have contributed to this work. They bring forward the best of our past to inspire our contemporary lives.

“The skill and effort that goes into finishing projects like this demonstrates the kind of collective strength that will support Māori succeeding at home and globally.

“And through our art, the World gets to learn a little more about the strength and beauty of our Māori culture,” Mrs Hippolite said.

ENDS

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