Story: Kōhatu – Māori use of stone

Flax pounder

Flax pounder

The patu muka (flax pounder) was used to pound the inner fibres of the harakeke (flax). Flax had numerous uses including clothing, mats, plates, ropes, baskets, fishing lines and nets. Most hapū had their own flax plantations.

Using this item

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Reference: F.004312/1

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

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How to cite this page:

Phil Moore and Bruce McFadgen, 'Kōhatu – Māori use of stone - Other uses for stone', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/object/8888/flax-pounder (accessed 30 March 2024)

Story by Phil Moore and Bruce McFadgen, published 12 Jun 2006