Saturday, February 7, 2009

New Zealand: Waitangi Day 2009: Powhiri
















We now are introduced to a unique experience only from New Zealand. According to Māori Protocol, there is the Powhiri Official formal welcome.
The opening ceremony gives us a chance to watch the Ngati Whatua o Orakei give a powhiri. It begins with wero/challenge. The chief challenges the manuhiri/guests. He carries a spear (taiaha) then lays down a token (often a small branch) that the manuhiri ( Mayor John Banks) picks up to show they come in peace.






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