Look at the intricate carvings on this massive waharoa, or gateway. Te Papa is a waharoa too – a gateway to New Zealand’s natural and cultural heritage.

Waharoa are entrances to pā, or fortified villages. This waharoa is over 6 metres tall – and carved from one slab of tōtara wood, with side panels.

In the centre stand ancestors, flanked by manaia, or spiritual guardians. See the middle ancestor’s pose and fierce stare? You might encounter these postures in a formal welcome ceremony or pōwhiri.

This waharoa was made by Neke Kapua and his sons Eramiha and Tene, of the Ngāti Tarāwhai tribe. They carved it at the Colonial Museum, which is now Te Papa. It was displayed at the New Zealand International Exhibition in Christchurch from 1906 to 1907.