MOKOMOKAI: The Documentary
and
MOKO: The Horror Movie

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On May 16th 1997 production and filming began on a major documentary series of ethnographic and sacred significance.
It deals - in three parts - with the survival abroad and in New Zealand of Mokomokai - prepared Maori heads - some used for trade, and others artistically and significantly tattooed.
The documentary recounts the academic and tribal background of the late Maui Pomare and his efforts as a collector of Maori antiquities, principally Mokomokai. The largest single collection of Maori heads outside of western museums in Europe and America is housed in the new "Museum of New Zealand," Te Papa Tongarewa, recently opened on Wellington's Harbour front.
The collection's manager, Walter Waipara, is known internationally as Maui Pomare's protege and will continue his research.
Success in securing the further repatriation of Mokomokai to their ancestral and cultural homes in Aotearoa is an aim of this series of programs also the Maori unit of Te Papa Tongarewa, and the MOKOMOKAI EDUCATION TRUST
DALVANIUS SAYS: "Where Museums purchased Mokomokai and Koiwi legitimately They are protected under International Property Law, and they are not obligated to give them back. Like their original sale the form of barter is negotiable. However where a facility has acquired Koiwi and Mokomokai knowing it was stolen, under International humanitarian law they should be returned without question"
With thanks to Mana, the Maori magazine for all New Zealanders! Order your copy to day by calling (07) 349 0260 Fax (07) 349 0258... $30NZ for 6 issues, $58NZ for 12 issues.