P.O.A

About this item: Kōauau are short flutes usually with three finger holes. Every instrument is regarded as an individual which gets named. The slightly bulging shape of the kōauau represents the tungoungou or case of the casemoths. This shaping is often used as an acknowledgement of the importance of these ‘houses’. This design can also be done to hold a nguru, the koauau or nguru becomes both the lid and the contents of the vessel which holds it.

About Taonga Puoro: In Maori Music traditions musical instruments are members of the families of the Gods. Tunes are named Rangi after the Sky Father to whom they ascend after being sounded and Rhythms  come from the heartbeats of Papa, the Earth Mother. Their children, Hine pu te Hue, Tane, and Tawhiri Matea, their Great uncle Tangaroa and a grandchild, Raukatauri, Goddess of flute music, are most of the ancestors of a wide range of musical instruments. Click here hear to learn the origin story of Maori flutes.

As in tradition much of the work put into instruments was for their carved stories therefore I prefer to work to your budget while adding appropriate carving.

Protocol: Traditionally these treasures are given personal names and you are invited to continue that tradition.

Material: The recycled Matai used for these because of its straight grain and sound qualities has been treated with a special food safe, organic burnishing oil. Several coats give it years of lasting but if well used and wear shows around the mouthpiece or inside it just needs recoating. Shells and Feathers are imported and so already screened for pest and any border limiting conventions.

If required Baby Wipes make easily available sanitisers.