Nga Moteatea An Introduction / He Kupu Arataki

The songs of New Zealand's Maori tradition are a living art form and an abundant source of knowledge about tribal history and culture. An introduction to the classic collection first compiled in the 1920s by politician Sir Apirana Ngata, this volume not only outlines the origins and history of the first publication but also celebrates the power and meaning of Maori song. Written in both English and Maori, it discusses the music's styles and roles, the methods of composition, and the poetry itself as well as the cultural content. Filled with illustrations, this enlightening book is a perfect entry point for students, teachers, scholars, and singers interested in learning about and passing on the rich and vibrant Maori customs.

Jane McRae is an honorary research fellow in the Department of Maori Studies at the University of Auckland, a translator, a researcher, and an editor of Maori language. Her essays have been published in The Oxford History of New Zealand Literature and Turnbull Library Record. She is the coeditor of Rere Atu, Taku Manu! Discovering History Language and Politics in the Maori-Language Newspapers and He Pitopito Korero no te Perehi Maori: Readings From the Maori-Language Press. Heni Jacob worked at Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori / The Maori Language Commission before leaving to take up Maori language writing, translation, editing and lexicographical work as a consultant. She is a former senior writer and editor of He Pataka Kupu and Te Matatiki dictionaries, the author of the second edition of Maori for the Office, and the coauthor of He Kohinga Kiwaha.