Hauhake Harakeke

Nanny Kahumanu told a story about cutting flax, she says: Harakeke will live for a long time if you don’t cut the middle three blades.

The middle three blades are called “whaea” (mother) “matua” (father) and the protected “rito” (baby). However, you can cut “tipuna” (grandparents).

You should always treat the flax with respect just like we respect our families.


Tawhirimatea (the god of the weather) gives the flax rain so it can strengthen the Harakeke.


By Sam and Braedon.