A temple for a prophet: (Ratana architecture)

Abstract

This report begins with a description of the historical background of Maori religious movements in New Zealand. It then gives a more detailed account of the development of the Ratana church, and the building of the Ratana Temple. This includes a description of the Temple, the way it is used, and the symbolic meanings of the various elements, symbols and colours. The report then provides detailed descriptions (including photographs) of all the subsequent Ratana branch churches that were built, Ratana administrative buildings, and other buildings that were specifically related to the Movement. The report concludes with a discussion of the possible origins of the distinctive architectural appearance of the Ratana churches.