Pakaariki Harrison

Pakaariki "Paki" Harrison (6 July 1928 – 29 December 2008) was a New Zealand master carver from Ngāti Porou. He is regarded as one of New Zealand's greatest carvers.

Early life Harrison was born in Ruatoria, the eldest of 21 children. He was raised by his grandmother Materoa Reedy and attended Hiruhārama Native School. Whilst attending Te Aute College, Harrison was introduced to carving by master carver, Pine Taiapa who became a lifelong influence. He was educated at Massey University and Auckland Teachers College.

Recognition Harrison was awarded an honorary LittD by the University of Auckland in 1991.

In the 2000 Queen's Birthday Honours, Harrison was appointed a Companion of the Queen's Service Order for community service.

In 2002, Harrison was named as the leader of the design team for Toi Iho / Māori Made mark for Creative New Zealand. The same year, He Tohunga Whakairo, a documentary about Harrison, directed by Moana Maniapoto and Toby Mills, won best Māori language programme at the New Zealand Television Awards.

Harrison was named a living icon of New Zealand arts by the Arts Foundation of New Zealand in 2005.