Story: Hōkakatanga – Māori sexualities

Sexual symbolism on a waka huia (2nd of 2)

Sexual symbolism on a waka huia

The lid of this waka huia (treasure box) shows male and female figures engaged in sexual intercourse. Sexual symbolism was often incorporated into Māori carving.

Using this item

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Reference: OL000003

Permission of the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

All images & media in this story

How to cite this page:

Clive Aspin, 'Hōkakatanga – Māori sexualities - Sexuality in Māori tradition', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/object/31693/sexual-symbolism-on-a-waka-huia (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Clive Aspin, published 5 May 2011, reviewed & revised 22 Jan 2019