With Matariki just a few days away, we thought now would be a great time to talk about Māori potatoes. Māori potatoes, or taewa, are varieties of potatoes that Māori have grown for at least 200 years, and taewa refers collectively to some traditional varieties, including Karuparerā, Huakaroro and Moemoe. To make the Māori potatoes more accessible this year, we are selling them individually, so why not try them? Māori potatoes are knobbly, smaller and more colourful than modern potato varieties. Potatoes are easy-to-grow vegetables that can be grown in the garden, pots, and other containers.

Whataroa

Whataroa is ideal for oven-baked wedges, chips, and roasting in jackets.
Maturity: Main Harvest, 110-120 days
Tuber Shape: Oblong
Skin: Light brown with purple patches
Flesh: Cream with purple flushes

Kowiniwini

Kowiniwini is a waxy potato, ideal for boiling.
Maturity: Main Harvest, 120 days
Tuber Shape: Round
Skin: Multi-coloured
Flesh: Cream

Moemoe

Moemoe is ideal for boiling and baking. They taste great, mashed with butter, pepper, and parsley.
Maturity: Main Harvest, 120-130 days
Tuber Shape: Round Oval
Skin: Light purple and cream
Flesh: Cream

Waiporoporo

Waiporoporo is excellent for boiling and is a lovely-tasting potato.
Maturity: Main Harvest, 110 days
Tuber Shape: Round Oval
Skin: Multi-coloured
Flesh: White

Huakaroro

Huakaroro is a waxy potato that is great for boiling. Has a buttery taste and is a good keeper.
Maturity: Main Harvest, 120 days
Tuber Shape: Round oval
Skin: Cream
Flesh: Cream, deep eyes

Karuparera

This potato is ideal for salads and boiling.
Maturity: Main Harvest, 120 days
Tuber Shape: Round
Skin: Dark purple skin, white eyes
Flesh: Cream

Urenika

Urenika is yam-like. Very floury, ideal for baking, roasting, and wedges.
Maturity: Main Harvest, 110 days
Tuber Shape: Elongated
Skin: Dark purple skin
Flesh: Purple with white flecks

Growing guide
If you want to grow Māori potatoes, check out our potato growing guide here for some handy tips to help you grow successfully.