Te Maori whare

Abstract

This research report identifies what the Maori considers to be important in terms of the architectural elements of their "whare" (houses). It looks at the origins of the whare and how it has developed with respect to tribal and European influences. It concludes with a discussion of what the essential architectural elements are to the marae and its meeting house. I have concentrated my studies on buildings which are commonly found on marae, in particular the meeting house. From its early beginings to the present day, the whare has always been a strong cultural focuss of Maori identity. The whare, and the encompassing marae, have undergone change. However, its basic form and importance to the Maori community has remained constant. It is a place where the whanau can come together. The whare is made up of a number of architectural elements which support the idea of gathering together. The meeting house in itself is an element in a wider composition of spaces, all signalling a place to unite and interact. The culture reflects a state of mind which is given quite literal form in the architecture of the marae. The idea of the whanau meeting.