Watangi, Bay of Islands, NZ
A traditional Maori greeting ceremony: Meet Chief Paul It was here in the Bay of Islands that the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the British Crown and the Maori chiefs. It gave British Sovereignty over New Zealand according to the English version, the translated Maori version however is somewhat different... The cultural show in the Whare Runanga (The Meeting House) was performed with greatest pride and enthusiasm, demonstrating their Maori inheritance by the group ‘TE PITO WHENUA’ and was very impressive. For the welcome Ceremony and entering of the Whare, Paul was chosen to be the chief of the Tourist Tribe visiting that day. He was presented to the three male warriors, picked up the peace token, a simple branch of leaves, gave a welcome speech in reply of the host chief and experienced his first Hongi. The Haka at the end of the event was performed with amazing power and energy. Hongi with Muritere Apiata The Hongi is the Maori greeting, pressing forehead and nose together for a few seconds (or longer) and perhaps adding the words “Kia Ora” or “Tena Koe”. Maoris use it to this day, to connect with respect and spirituality with each other. We found it a very profound, sincere, meaningful and moving experience. |
