In Maori meeting houses, sculpture and architecture are closely intertwined. The meeting houses, also known as wharenui, are designed to be both functional and symbolic, and the carvings that adorn the houses play an important role in conveying meaning and significance. The carvings, which are usually made from wood, often depict ancestral figures and other important cultural symbols. These carvings are not only decorative but also serve to tell stories and convey important cultural values. The carvings are integrated into the overall design of the meeting house and are an integral part of its architecture. Thus, in Maori meeting houses, sculpture and architecture are closely connected, with the carvings playing a central role in the design and meaning of the buildings.