Koru

For other uses, see Koru (disambiguation).

An unfurling silver fern frond
Koru kōwhaiwhai patterns on a rafter from the Ngāti Maru wharenui Hotunui
The koru flag

The koru (Māori for 'loop or coil')[1] is a spiral shape evoking a newly unfurling frond from a silver fern frond.[2] It is an integral symbol in Māori art, carving and tattooing, where it symbolises new life, growth, strength and peace.[3] Its shape "conveys the idea of perpetual movement," while the inner coil "suggests returning to the point of origin".[3]

  1. ^ Moorfield, John C. (2010). "koru". Te Aka Māori–English, English–Māori Dictionary and Index. Te Whanake. Archived from the original on 22 July 2011. Retrieved 14 March 2010.
  2. ^ Houlahan, Mike (27 December 2018). "The koru – arguably the best-known Maori symbol". Otago Daily Times. Retrieved 14 October 2022.
  3. ^ a b Royal, Te Ahukaramū Charles (4 March 2009). "Māori creation traditions". Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand. New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage / Te Manatū Taonga. Retrieved 14 March 2010.