Paratene Matchitt was a leading figure in the development of contemporary Māori art from the 1960s onward. Born in Tokomaru Bay and educated at St Peter’s Māori Boys’ College, he trained as a teacher and later became an arts advisor and practitioner whose work fused Māori visual language with international modernist forms.

Matchitt’s practice drew deeply from the symbolism of Māori prophetic movements, particularly the story and flag of Te Kooti Arikirangi Te Tūruki. He was known for his bold use of form and material — carving wood and shaping metal into large-scale public works that carried strong cultural narratives. His works can be found in civic spaces across Aotearoa, including the Aotea Centre (1989), the City to Sea Bridge in Wellington (1993), and the Heritage Fountain in Napier.

He studied under master carver Pine Taiapa and worked to assert the value of Māori knowledge in contemporary art and education. His legacy is visible in the visibility and recognition of Māori public art across Aotearoa.

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In acknowledging his contribution, Toi Iho also recognises the complexity of his legacy. In 2001, Matchitt was convicted of a serious criminal offence and served a prison sentence. This has had an impact on the way his work is exhibited and discussed today. We include this context out of respect for all those affected, and in the spirit of honest reflection on the responsibilities that come with honouring Māori creativity.

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