Traditions of the Maoris

The traditions of the place

The Māori people still follow the footsteps of their Tipuna, which is the term for their ancestors. Being a tribal Polynesian people, Māori have a unique protocol. The best place to observe it is on a Marae which is a Māori meeting ground. This is where many tourist operators in New Zealand organise visits to Marae.

A Powhiri which signifies a formal welcome at a Marae, beings with a Wero. The Warrior from the Tangata Whenua which is the Hosts, will challenge the Manuhiri which is the guests. The Warrior may carry a spear (Taiaha) then lay down a token which is often represented by a Small Branch that the Manuhiri will pick up to show they come in peace. Some Kuia which are the women from the Tangata Whenua will perform a Karanga which is a chant or a call to the Manuhiri. The Women from the Manuhiri will then respond as they move onto the Marae in front of their men.

Below is a video of this formal welcome by the Maoris:

There are many Maoris still alive that keep their traditions alive, and not for monetary gains but for the pride of their culture.
Below is a video of a Maori lady also known as a Kuia, and her life as a Maori.