teretere

Teretere is a type of Maori string game played with a piece of string or flax. It is similar to the string game cat's cradle, but typically involves more complex figures and often uses two strings, one held in each hand, to create the patterns. The game is a communal activity, often played by children and adults, and is used to teach dexterity, fine motor skills, and storytelling through the manipulation of the string. The name "teretere" itself is onomatopoeic, possibly referring to the rustling or swishing sound the string makes during play.

The game begins with the string looped around the fingers of both hands. Players then meticulously move their fingers, passing the string through loops and around digits to create a series of figures. These figures can represent animals, objects, or abstract shapes. Each figure is often accompanied by a chanted story or song, passed down through generations. The transition from one figure to another requires skillful coordination and precise movements. Failing to execute a move correctly often results in the game ending for that player, though it can usually be restarted.

Teretere is more than just a game; it is a cultural practice that preserves traditional knowledge and fosters social interaction. It is a way for elders to pass on cultural narratives and values to younger generations in an engaging and interactive manner. While the specific figures and accompanying stories can vary between iwi (tribes), the underlying principles of skillful string manipulation and narrative association remain consistent. The practice has seen a resurgence in recent years as a means of cultural revitalisation.