"Is it okay for non-Māori to wear taonga?" This pātai (question) frequently surfaces within our community. In opening this discussion to our followers, we aimed to gather a spectrum of perspectives to share with you. This article is not about delivering a definitive answer or granting permission, but rather providing 'food for thought' to enrich your understanding of this nuanced kaupapa (topic).
The wearing and sharing of taonga is woven deeply within the fabric of Te Ao Māori. For non-Māori, understanding the cultural significance and contemporary discussions surrounding taonga is a respectful way to approach their connection to them.
Understanding Taonga and Its Place in Māori Culture
Firstly, let’s ground ourselves with a bit of knowledge. Taonga, like pounamu (greenstone), are not merely objects of physical beauty but hold immense cultural, spiritual, and historical significance. Traditionally used for tools and adornments, pounamu is also a symbol of mana (prestige), often passed down through generations as a cherished heirloom. The act of gifting taonga is deeply embedded within Māori culture as an expression of respect and admiration, linking the giver and receiver in a bond rooted in respect.
Navigating Cultural Sensitivities
The dialogue around non-Māori wearing taonga can be complex and layered, reflecting broader concerns around safeguarding the cultural integrity and rights of indigenous communities impacted by colonisation.
"The issue I have is there are many non-Māori in spaces our own people are missing out on. I think it's sad that non-Māori breeze through our spaces and wear our taonga and we have our people still questioning their worth, their connectedness, and if they are Māori enough. Many of our Māori can't even afford taonga."
"I feel uncomfortable with Pākehā or tauiwi gifting taonga to anyone who isn't Māori. I think wearing or gifting taonga can sometimes allow people to assume a role within te ao Māori that isn't theirs. Especially when not everyone who is Māori has found their space within our culture because we are all still deciding what is tika within Te Ao Māori in today's world. We need space to do so."
Some Māori followers expressed how they face scrutiny due to assumptions about their identity based on their more European features:
"It's an absolute walk of shame at the best of times having to constantly explain 'nah I'm all good I whakapapa Ngāti Tuwharetoa' to then be allowed to stay at the table so to speak."
While some express concerns, others advocate for inclusivity and sharing Māori culture with respect and understanding:
"Taonga are for EVERYONE."
"Honestly, my view is if people want to wear something from our world because it resonates with their āhua, I’m not only cool with it, but quietly stoked."
"He Māori ahau - I love seeing tauiwi loving our taonga 😍✨️"
"Ki ōku nei whakaaro, like learning te reo, it is about heart/intent and the story behind the wearing."
Intent and Relationship
Understanding the intent behind wearing taonga and the relationship it symbolises can bridge cultural connections and foster mutual respect. It is important for non-Māori to understand and honour the culture connected to the taonga they wish to engage with, committing to uplift and respect its traditions.
"Taonga is about intention and if it was given to them [non-Māori] with intent they should absolutely wear it."
"If wearing is born of connection and respect then I don’t think it’s cultural appropriation."
"My tāne is Pākehā & actively helps me live my Māoritanga & get our tamariki involved in kaupapa at our marae. I gave him a pounamu taonga for his 40th as he's married to me & is very supportive of everything we try to achieve with our marae and hapū."
"Āe happy if they are on the anti-colonial waka."
"I have given manaia taonga to two friends' babies who were diagnosed with medical conditions. I wanted them to be protected."
Avoiding Tokenistic Gestures
Respect the cultural significance of taonga and avoid reducing them to mere accessories or symbols used flippantly or superficially.
"[a couple I know] won tickets to a meet and greet with a famous singer and gifted him a taonga pounamu along with their version of its cultural significance, but in their day-to-day life they're slightly racist...we aren't a token culture to be flaunted only to international visitors when it suits."
"That's when we start to lose sight of our traditions…These taonga are for our people. Now, our taonga are used and abused by non-Māori (not all) for their own profits."
Gifting & Receiving Taonga
The tikanga (custom) of gifting taonga has a lot of historical significance in Māori culture (read this article by Taonga by Timoti for more on that), and in the context of non-Māori and taonga, there is a lot of discussion around who should gift them and the circumstances under which they are given.
"...it should be gifted from a Māori. You earn it in a sense."
"[non-Māori wearing taonga is] not a problem at all in my opinion. Our tūpuna often gave many precious tāonga to tauiwi."
"As a Pākehā it doesn’t feel right for me to gift someone else a taonga, or likewise another non-Māori to gift one because it doesn’t feel like it’s my place or right. But it’s different when it is gifted by Māori because there will be purpose and intention behind it."
Supporting Authentic Māori Craftsmanship
Many responses highly encouraged to purchase directly from Māori carvers and artists, especially ones who use pounamu that has been sourced within Aotearoa. This not only ensures the cultural authenticity of the taonga, but also supports the livelihoods of Māori artists and their communities.
"I'm happy as long as it is Māori-made - give back to te ao Māori by supporting our creatives"
Reflections
As we navigate these waters, we must recognise that the core of the discussion is about respect—respect for the taonga, the culture from which they come, and the people who hold that culture dear. Wearing taonga should be approached with heart and intent, always considering the hononga (connection), whakapapa (history/genealogy), and the mana of those taonga.
Some reflective thoughts from non-Māori followers:
"Ngā mihi for this kōrero. I'm glad my understanding has deepened. I have brought taonga (always from Māori pakihi) for other people and given as koha to people moving back overseas who loved Aotearoa and Māori culture. I now understand the mamae and whakaaro around taonga. I never even considered how privileged (for lack of better word) it was for me to wear taonga considering some Māori don't have the funds to purchase and wear 😭 I wear mine with aroha and pride for Māori culture and as an ally to tāngata whenua and for my tamariki."
"This kōrero is really interesting, thank you. As pākehā, I think about this often and how Māori may feel about me wearing / being gifted taonga. I have taonga that has been given to me... I treasure them deeply.”
Next time you consider gifting or wearing taonga, think about the deeper connections and responsibilities it carries. Engage with the culture with humility and respect, and support authentic Māori craftsmanship. May your journey through Te Ao Māori be one of learning, respect, and genuine connection.
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