Details

Te Koparapara offers an engaging and authoritative introduction to Maori history, culture, and society for students and general readers alike. Its title, inspired by the bellbird (koparapara), reflects the book’s purpose: “Ka rite te kopara e ko nei i te ata — like a bellbird singing at dawn,” allowing the Maori world to speak for itself.

Across 21 richly illustrated chapters, leading scholars explore key aspects of Maori life — from ancient origins to contemporary challenges and achievements.

Key Features:
• Maori culture — insights into tikanga both on and off the marae, and rituals such as powhiri and tangihanga
• Maori history — from the creation narratives and waka migrations to Maori protest and urbanisation
• Contemporary Maori society — addressing modern issues including health, education, political economy, and identity
• Illustrated content — includes images, maps, diagrams, songs, and sayings for an enriched understanding

Each chapter combines scholarship with storytelling, weaving te reo Maori and wider Pacific perspectives throughout — making Te Koparapara an essential guide to understanding the past, present, and future of the Maori world.

“Ko te manu kai i te miro nona te ngahere, ko te manu kai i te matauranga nona te ao.”
“The bird that feasts on the miro berry belongs to the forest; the bird that feasts on knowledge belongs to the world.”

Product Details:
• Editors: Michael Reilly, Suzanne Duncan, Gianna Leoni, Lachy Paterson, Lyn Carter, Matiu Ratima, and Poia Rewi
• Format: Soft Cover
• ISBN: 9781869408671

Disclaimer: COLOUR VARIATION – we try to ensure images match the actual product; slight variations may occur due to device colour settings.