Pampas Grass, Saturday 25 July 2015

Toetoe versus Pampas Grass.

Toetoe is the native 'pampas grass' as opposed to actual Pampas grass which is an introduced 'grass' and has a very fluffy, feathery flower. Pampas grass flowers in the Winter, toetoe does not.

Māori used toetoe stalks for making frames to work tukutuku patterns. The stalks were also used in the making of manu aute - kites.

I always thought Toetoe was spelled Toitoi. Maybe this is something you could check out!http://www.terrain.net.nz/friends-of-te-henui-group/plants-grasses-sedges-rushes-nz-natives/toetoe.html

Hue / Gourd: Taonga Puoro.

         Hue / Gourd

 A photo of the hue I purchased from the Pumpkin Barn, Millers Flat. 
Hopefully I will be able to find a place that has warmth and a good air flow to dry them out!
Then (next year probably) I can have a go at making a Hopurangi or a Koauau punga ihu. 

(Ref. Page 31, 32 of the book Taonga Puoro Singing Treasures.) 

Wish me luck!

Poi Awhiowhio (Whistling Gourd)

Poi Awhiowhio: (Whistling gourd)
Poi awhiowhio are medium-sized gourds which are swung on a cord that can be threaded through a hole in the neck or even through the neck and base. A description continues about these Taonga Puoro  on page 29 of the book Taonga Puoro Singing Treasures, written by Brian Flintoff.
As they rotate they make a chattering whistle. Their tangi is very quiet and it needs concentration to appreciate it.

One must take care when swinging the Poi Awhiowhio not to hit walls, doors, lights or close furniture. Once cracked and or broken the sound is never the same again and one should start anew. Unfortunately Gourds are not easily grown in Murihiku. You could have a go at growing them though.
If you would like to know more contact the RTM's at rtm.maori@gmail.com

Ngai Tahu Publications.

This months Te Karaka and Te Panui Runaka arrived in my letter box this week. Both magazines are well worth reading. 
Te Panui Runaka keeps one up with activities that are being held in and by the whanau of the 18 Papatipu Runaka in Te Waipounamu, Ngai Tahu whanau whanui, as well as those who live in te Ika a Maui. 
 Te Karaka, is a more 'serious' magazine with many articles, stories, interviews and opinions etc on Ngai Tahu people, their mahi and aspirations etc. Both magazines are great for information sharing and learning from. 
If you are a registered Ngai Tahu person you qualify for these magazines otherwise contact your local Ngai Tahu Runaka or 0800 Kai Tahu for more information or the rtm's in Murihiku on rtm.maori@gmail.com