Traditional Maori Instruments

Riki played each instrument for us. It was incredible. Each one was unique and beautiful.

1. Hue = a gourd, very airy drone, said to represent the heartbeat of the Earth Mother, Papatuanuku

2. Conch, can't remember what they used this for, probably warnings in times of war

3. Ko iwi kuri = Dog whistle. It is just a hollow canine leg bone with three holes in it, but it sounds very whole and beautiful when played. I was surprised.

4. Woven cases for the smaller whistles.

5. Nguru Paora = carved from a sperm whale tooth. it has a very sharp to low sound. its intricate carvings are hard to see here, but it must have taken somebody quite some time to complete it.

6. Putatara = Conch Horn. loud trumpet sound, used to announce a charge or provide warning during times of war.

7. Small whistle carved out of a dense stone, used to create bird calls. very high pitched but smooth in sound, like a high note on a recorder but not as shrill on the ears.

8. Nguru = small wooden flute, used to play songs of lament and remorse, such as in the passing of a loved one or some other form of loss

9. Putorino = large wooden flute. This one was my favourite. It has such a wholesome deep sound that can be transformed into light bursts and various airyness. you can play it from either end or from the mouth in the middle. Best heard played in a cave I am told.