Porcelain bowl featuring a drawing of harakeke by NZ artist Jo Luping.
Traditionally harakeke (flax) and wharariki (mountain flax) were the main plants used for weaving by Maori. Their tough, sword-shaped leaves were woven into kete (baskets), sails, tukutuku panels and fishing nets. Muka, the prepared fibre of flax, was made into cord for tying adzes, fences, houses and canoes.
A poultice made from flax leaves disinfected wounds. Nectar or wai kōrari from the flowers was sometimes added to food as a sweetener, or made into a refreshing drink.
Diameter: 10 cm
