The Maori word for New Zealand flax — a tall, striking plant native to New Zealand and the Pacific Islands that has been used for centuries in Maori weaving and craft. Harakeke is deeply embedded in Maori culture, with the plant itself carrying spiritual significance: the central shoot represents the child, surrounded by parent and grandparent leaves, symbolising family and community. Today it's used freely in New Zealand English as the standard name for the plant, a sign of how Maori language is woven into everyday Kiwi life.
She spent the afternoon learning to weave harakeke into kete baskets at the cultural centre.
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(NZ) New Zealand flax.
“My harakeke raranga teacher is cruel. (affectionate) I have to make three of these. 😭 First one took twelve hours. Second one took eight (excluding harvesting and prep). Top mat is fresh, bottom one is dry.”
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