Installation of woven tukutuku panels at Remuera Library

Commissioned by the Ōrākei Local Board and crafted by the Te Puāwai weavers from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei inside the library, three special tukutuku panels were installed at Remuera Library to celebrate its 100th anniversary.

Design and Meaning

• • Side Panels (Pou): The first and third panels represent pou (posts). They stand for core support, stability, balance, and guardianship.
  • Centre Panel: This panel features gold purapura whetū patterns using pīngao. It honors navigation, Matariki, and community contributions. [1]
  • Core Theme: The artwork links the past, present, and future, inspired by the proverb Ka mua, ka muri (walking backwards into the future guided by past wisdom

We were honoured this morning to join Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei for the blessing of the beautiful new tukutuku panels now gracing Remuera Library. Created by artists from Ōrākei Marae, led by Beronia Scott, the design draws inspiration from traditional tukutuku patterns, weaving together themes of protection, knowledge, and community connection. Ka mua, ka muri; we walk backwards into the future, guided by the wisdom of those who came before.

Of the three panels, the first represents pou as a central support, both physically and metaphorically. The centre panel features purapura whetū in gold (pīngao), symbolising navigation, Matariki, and the many unique contributions of the community. Mirroring the first, the third panel is also a pou, reinforcing stability, balance, and guardianship. We were thrilled to have the opportunity to weave a tiny portion of the panels last year. A meaningful addition to the library and a powerful reflection of culture, storytelling, and connection.

Orakei Local Board. May 2026.