In Nga Tau Rere, David Simmons introduces the reader to 61 ancient Maori poems of forms that are familiar and not so familiar. For example, there are tangi (laments) and haka taua (war dance) and, less well-known, whakaaraara (watch-cries). The poems have been selected from Sir George Grey's Ko Nga Moteatea me Nga Hairara o Nga Maori, which is a collection of works gathered and recorded by Grey and published in 1853. Every poem tells a story and is a record of Maori history. The author has provided English translations for each poem, as well as sourcing information about the subject matter of the poems and providing extensive notes. The introductory notes explain how Maori poetry is composed, and identifies elements of construction that provide a common thread throughout its many forms. This book is an excellent resource for those who wish to appreciate the beauty of Maori poetry and those who wish to study its form, its meaning and the contribution the art form makes to Maori society and culture.