Kete made by Riria Smith from kuta
(Photograph Geoff Walls)
Weaving Plants – biology, distribution, and propagation
Harakeke (New Zealand flax) is the most widely used native plant in both traditional and contemporary weaving, but several other species are also used for their distinctive qualities.
The following information on the biology, ecology, distribution, threats to and propagation of weaving plants is aimed particularly at those learning raranga (plaiting) and whatu (weaving). We hope that a deeper understanding of the plants’ biology and information on how to grow them will assist weavers and communities in their efforts to conserve these important resources.
Māori name |
Other common name |
Scientific name |
| Harakeke | New Zealand flax | Phormium tenax |
| Houhere | lacebark | Hoheria spp. |
| Inaka | grass tree | Dracophyllum spp. |
| Kāpūngāwhā | lake clubrush | Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani |
| Kāretu | holy grass | Hierochloe redolens |
| Kiekie | kiekie | Freycinetia banksii |
| Kuta | bamboo spike sedge | Eleocharis sphacelata |
| Neinei | grass tree | Dracophyllum spp. |
| Pīngao | golden sand sedge | Ficinia spiralis |
| Raupō | bulrush | Typha orientalis |
| Ti kōuka | cabbage tree | Cordyline australis |
| Tikumu | mountain daisy | Celmisia spp. |
| Tōī | mountain cabbage tree | Cordyline indivisa |
| Toetoe | toetoe | Cortaderia spp. |
| Wharariki | mountain flax | Phormium cookianum |
Further reading
For stunning images of weaving from a variety of plants see:
- Miriama Evans & Ranui Ngarimu 2005. The art of Māori weaving. Wellington, Huia Publishers.
- Mick Pendergrast 1987. Te aho tapu. The sacred thread. Auckland, Reed Methuen.
- Tōī Te Rito Maihi & Maureen Lander 2005. He kete he kōrero. Every kete has a story. Auckland, Reed.
Prepared by Sue Scheele and Peter Sweetapple
Funded by the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology Contract TRRW0301
