A collection of almost 200 original Māori artefacts are part of a new tāonga Māori exhibition called "Tēnei Tonu" (Always Here) that opened today at the MTG Museum in Hawke's Bay.
It's an exhibition that explores the historical connection of Ngāti Kahungunu to the land.
Priceless artefacts on display, each of them providing a glimpse into the past.
Tryphena Cracknell says, “The number of family lonas from whānau that have come in are really amazing. When someone shares their taonga handed down from their tīpuna, it’s a really big thing.”
Technology of the time shown with these uhi use in tā moko work, that were discovered in archaeological digs in Porangahau and Mahia.
Cracknell says, “Those have been into the skins of our ancestors, so it’s a pretty personal taonga.”
Of the 61 poupou carved by master carver Hoani Tahu, there is only one that remains in the Hawke's Bay. The rest are scattered around the country and overseas.
Rose Mohi says, “Augustus Hamilton regarded these carvings as some of the finest carvings that was ever completed and you can just see the depth and the skill of this man.
A historical exhibition that incorporates some modern concepts too.
Tēnei Tonu will be on display at the museum for the next two years.