Traditional Maori music is inseparable from Taha Maori, the Maori way of life. Music is interwoven into the total fabric of Tikanga Maori. Karakia, waiata, karanga, haka - all are integrated into life celebrations and events. Later Maori music shows the European influence. Often, Pakeha music was adapted by Maori, who replaced existing texts with their own. For example, the beautiful song "Tama Nga Te Marie", is originally an Anglican hymn while Now Is the Hour sung by Ana Hato has been adapted from the original, in two ways. One texturally, two, rhythmically.

In this section you will find a selection of audio and images depicting Maori music; karakia, waiata, karanga, haka.