Alongside the collection of wood, pounamu, bone, stone and flax pieces created by institute students and tutors, a senior carver, James Taonui-a-Kupe Rickard, will create a tauihu (canoe prow) while three ta moko (Maori tattoo) artists will be working at the venue.
Institute director Karl Johnstone said Tuku Iho was created to share Maori culture far and wide by connecting and engaging with other indigenous cultures from around the world.
"Tuku Iho provides an opportunity for our artists and performers to interact with Brazil's indigenous peoples, schools, arts communities and wider public. It generates dialogue around models of cultural development, the role of arts in our societies, and most critically, the importance of identity to the well-being of modern communities," he said. The Rio exhibition is the fifth to be staged, following successful outings in China and Malaysia in previous years, and Chile and Argentina earlier this year.
"Tuku Iho has been overwhelmingly supported, wherever it is staged. It brings together a range of unique art and performance elements set within iconic and historically important sites, which brings our perspectives to life and engages people in critical conversations about our connectivity to each other and the world we live in," Mr Johnstone said.
Te Puia chief executive Tim Cossar said Tuku Iho provided a powerful bridge between New Zealand and other countries and cultures, enabling a greater connection between people, officials, businesses and tourism operators.
"Tuku Iho is more than just a cultural exhibition - it provides a level of authenticity and credibility to our tourism product, and creates significant attention in important markets that we wouldn't otherwise be able to achieve.
"Tuku Iho positions Rotorua and New Zealand as a unique visitor destination, by showcasing its culture and history in a visual and genuine way. It allows us to make a real connection with people, and literally brings our experience to life for everyone involved. It is hugely exciting."
