Photo: Maori Carvings Wairakei Terraces

The Maori people create some of the most unique carvings at Wairakei Terraces in Taupo, New Zealand.

A Maori man sits on the Wairakei Terraces creating another fascinating carving full of special meanings and stories. The Maori people at the Wairakei Terraces are well known for their carvings and each carving combines elements from several areas of mythology which interact with one another to tell a story.Every element has its own individual meaning and the way that the carvings are depicted or united is what gives these carvings their own special character. Some elements may mean slightly different things between the Maori people but they all share common roots.The Maori people have an enormous amount of respect for nature and the legends told revolve around the spirits or gods who created or protected the world such as the mountains, forests, lakes and creatures of the underwater world. All of these things put together into the carvings at the Wairakei Terraces produce a story of great Maori culture and tradition. ... continue below the picture...

... On a tour of the Wairakei Terraces and the living Maori village you will see many different carvings done by the Maori people and a demonstration of this creative talent. A walk through the Wairakei Terraces Walkway will amaze, entertain and educate you and leave you with inspiring feelings of naturalness and beauty.Maori Carving demonstation at the Wairakei Terraces near Taupo, North Island, New Zealand.