Historically, poi were made from natural materials like harakeke (New Zealand flax), and raupō (bullrush). Learn about older poi in our collections, and explore the techniques and stories that are intertwined with this practice in te ao Māori.
Poi take a fair beating in kapa haka (Māori performing arts). But you won't find the rare and delicate poi awe (ornamental poi) swinging in time to music. Elaborate weaving and tassles of kurī (dog) hair make these poi particularly precious. Watch more in this episode of Tales of Te Papa.