Māori imagery

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Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand

Māori imagery

Māori imagery has certain distinct features.

Identification of Māori Imagery

The most distinctive features of Māori imagery are:

  • curvilinear designs (contained by or consisting of a curved line or lines) as depicted in moko (tattooing), kowhaiwhai (rafter patterns), and whakairo (carving).
  • rectilinear designs (contained by, consisting of, or moving in a straight line or lines) as depicted in tukutuku (ornamental paneling) or taniko (embroidery).
  • designs incorporating Māori objects.

Examples of curvilinear designs

Registered design showing stylized Māori curvilinear motifs used in decorative or symbolic contexts

Design No. 27637

 Curved Māori design emphasizing fluidity and traditional aesthetic principles.

Design No. 8525

 Trademark featuring Māori-inspired curvilinear elements, possibly used in branding with cultural significance.

Trade Mark No. 100737

Examples of rectilinear designs

Rectilinear Māori design with structured lines and shapes, reflecting traditional weaving techniques.

Design No. 8524

 Trade mark incorporating Māori rectilinear motifs, used in a commercial or cultural context.

Trade Mark No.
299446

 Geometric Māori design registered as a trademark, showcasing cultural patterning.

Trade Mark No. 170545

Example of a design incorporating Māori objects

This charm uses a Māori whare design:

Left perspective view of a design featuring a traditional Māori whare.

Left front perspective
Design No. 13376

 Right perspective view of a design featuring a traditional Māori whare.

Right front perspective

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