pritaikau

Pritaikau is a traditional Polynesian fishing technique primarily practiced by the Māori people of New Zealand, as well as other indigenous groups in the Pacific Islands. The method involves the use of a large, hand-carved wooden fish trap, often referred to as a *pā* or *pāwha*, which is anchored in shallow coastal waters to catch fish as they swim through.

The construction of a pritaikau typically begins with the selection of a suitable tree, such as *kāne* (pōhutukawa) or *tōtara*, whose wood is durable and resistant to water damage. Skilled artisans carve the wood into a funnel-shaped trap with an open end facing the incoming tide. The trap is often decorated with intricate patterns or carvings, reflecting cultural symbolism and artistic expression. Once constructed, the pritaikau is anchored to the seabed using ropes made from natural fibers like *harakeke* (flax).

Pritaikau fishing is deeply tied to Māori culture, serving both practical and ceremonial purposes. It was traditionally used as a sustainable method of catching fish, particularly species like *tara* (mullet) and *tuna* (eel). The technique also played a role in communal gatherings, where the successful retrieval of fish from the trap would be celebrated. Today, pritaikau remains an important cultural practice, though its use has declined due to modern fishing methods and environmental changes.

Efforts to revive and preserve the pritaikau technique have been undertaken by Māori communities and cultural organizations. Workshops and educational programs teach younger generations the art of trap-making and fishing, ensuring the tradition endures. The pritaikau is also recognized as part of New Zealand’s cultural heritage, symbolizing the connection between Māori people and their natural environment.