Arapo Whata - Maori Jewellery

Arapo Whata

Ngati Pkiao/Tainui

Arapo's first introduction to the Maori arts was as a student at Rotorua Boys High School learning wood carving (whakairo).  For a time Arapo then studied under the guidance of Lewis Gardiner and then Stacy Gordine at Te Puia.  He graduated and secured a position as a junior carver with his first teacher and mentor Lewis Gardiner at his working studio.

He is passionate about his culture and enjoys learning all he can about the arts.  His goal for the future is to immerse himself in pounamu carving and hone his skills.  

Arapo is all for preserving Maori culture and educating himself and others about pounamu and envisages so for many years to come.  

View the Arapo Whata Collection