Pearls of wisdom contained in proverbs – whakataukī – have been gifted
from generation to generation as an intrinsic part of the Māori, world. As
powerful metaphors, they combine analogy and cultural history in the most
economical of words. Short and insightful, they surprise, engendering
reflection, learning and personal growth.
Mauri Ora links
whakataukī to key personal virtues idealised across cultures and generations.
The virtues – wisdom, courage, compassion, integrity, self-mastery and belief –
stem from the science of positive psychology; the study of how to live a better
life. Illustrated throughout with wonderful photographs from an old world, this
book draws on traditional wisdom to provide a recipe for personal effectiveness
and leadership, and a rewarding connection of Māori knowledge to contemporary
thinking about personal happiness and fulfilment.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
PETER ALSOP grew up in Rotorua with a curiosity about te ao Māori, the
Māori world. His work in Wellington, across the public and private sectors,
included meeting his Ngāti Porou wife, Airihi Mahuika, daughter of
Poihipi/Bussy (1925–2004). Being married by Bussy’s younger brother Api
(1934–2015), in Tikitiki’s St Mary’s Church (itself a tribute to Apirana Ngata)
was a very special event. Hearing Api’s beautiful public oratory also built
lifechanging memories and a spirited call for a meaningful contribution to the
greater good. With four young kids and a senior executive role, Peter somehow
finds time as a night-time author to pursue his creative dreams. This is his
sixth book celebrating important cultural legacies of Aotearoa/New Zealand.
Peter also exhibited a collection of whakataukī/proverb paintings in 2006.
TE RAUMAWHITU KUPENGA, Te Rau, belongs to Ngāti Porou, from the East
Coast of Aotearoa/New Zealand. Te Rau received a privileged upbringing by his
mother and his mother’s kin, who fostered in him a lifelong passion for tribal
cultural knowledge. Having enjoyed a career in the law, as well as holding
senior positions in the private and public sectors, Te Rau’s key focus these
days is on tribal development. His favourite pastime is spending time with his three children
and fostering in them a love of their cultural heritage.
$39.99 - Hardback PLC
Potton and Burton
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