Matahiwi Marae is adorned with carvings of Māui and his family, manifesting the story of Māui. Māui himself stands as the tekoteko, the carved figure atop the gable of the roof, hauling on his great fishing line. The carved house is painted in green, reflecting both the raising of the great fish from the ocaen, covered in seaweed, and the green of the fertile gardens and orchards surrounding the Marae.
The Marae Ātea, courtyard in front of the house where customary welcome cermonies are performed, features carvings of Māui’s family, each carrying a moral and a message to be observed on the Marae. The local people of the Marae, of Ngāti Hawea, Ngāti Hori and Ngāti Kautere, carry many stories of Māui as living descendents.
Matahiwi Marae
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Visiting Info
Matahiwi Marae is located on Lawn Road half way between Clive and Te Awanga adjacent to the Tukituki River. Visits require prior arrangement and are generally reserved for either ceremonial purposes or arranged group visits or bookings.
Contacting the Marae is essential to arranging any visits.
