Auckland University proves Māori buildings withstand big big quakes

An Auckland University research team has proven ancient Maori building techniques could withstand big earthquakes. The techniques, known as mimiro, involved the use of interlocking structural supports, with rope used to lash the supports together before tightening them to strengthen the building. A prototype built by the team and funded by Toka Tu Ake EQC was quake tested by Auckland University engineers and passed with flying colours. Professor of Architecture and Planning at Auckland University Anthony Hoete speaks to Corin Dann.