Experience Ngā Hau Ngā kau: Canterbury Museum

Astounding paintings, carved taonga puoro (traditional Māori musical instruments), and beautiful music have been woven together for the exhibition Ngā Hau Ngā kau (Breath of Mine).

T his outstanding exhibition opened at Canterbury Museum at CoCA on 15 December 2023 and will run until 28 April 2024.

Talented artists, painter Robin Slow, master carver Brian Flintoff, and musician Bob Bickerton have collaborated for this work of art to explore narratives of Te Ao Māori (the Māori world).

Together they have created an immersive space through expressive imagery and ear-catching soundscapes. Carver Brian, who created 36 pieces for this touring exhibition, is recognised as one of the globe’s leading creators of traditional instruments. In reference to the work, he says “People see it as an experience rather than an exhibition. There are so many different facets. People return many times to experience it again.”

Painter Robin says his works are multi-layered to reference the many Māori stories he has understood during decades of work. The CoCA team is delighted to have such a meaningful exhibition in the museum space. “This immersive experience will delight and fascinate the Waitaha audience,” says Canterbury Museum Tumuaki/Director Anthony Wright.