pūrākau (stories)

Pūrākau are traditional Māori stories that convey cultural values, history, and lessons through narratives often involving ancestors, gods, and natural elements. These stories serve as a means of preserving identity, explaining the origins of people and land, and transmitting spiritual and moral knowledge across generations. Pūrākau are typically performed orally, evolving over time, and are considered sacred cultural treasures that connect communities to their heritage and environment. They illustrate the interplay between human experiences and the natural world, enriching cultural understanding and maintaining the continuity of Māori worldview and traditions.