Maori word for the best kind ofnative mat.
1835. W. Yate, `Account of New Zealand,' p. 157:
«Requiring from three to four months' close sitting to completeone of their kaitakas – – the finest sort of mat which theymake. This garment has a very silky appearance.»
1845. E. J. Wakefield, `Adventures in New Zealand,' vol. i.p. 244:
«Pukaro ended by flinging over my shoulders a very handsomekaitaka mat, which he had been wearing while he spoke.»
1881. J. L. Campbell, `Poenamo,' p. 205:
«Highly prized and beautiful kaitaka mats.»