- One example, is the haka. New Zealand's rugby team, the All Blacks, perform a haka before every game they play to acknowledge Maori culture. The haka is a display of strength, finding its origins as a pre-war dance. Similar expressions of strength can be found in countries like Fiji and Samoa.
- Another aspect of Maori culture involving a lot of established protocol are the proceedings on a marae, Maori gathering grounds, the central part of which is a wharenui or meeting house. Some of the numerous customs associated with proceedings at a marae are:
- The removal of shoes- When entering the wharenui, it is customary to remove one's shoes in order to respect the ancestors of the marae. These ancestors are respresented by the actual carvings on the wharenui which are intended to resemble a human body.It also respects the tapu (sacredness) of the area by preventing the transfer of dirt from outside into the wharenui.
- The powhiri- One cannot simply walk onto the grounds of a marae, you must be formally welcomed in a ceremony known as a powhiri. This is a set process involving a calling, karanga, many speeches, known as a mihi and the singing of songs, waiata. Unless otherwise specified, speeches made at the powhiri must be in Te Reo Maori.
- Staying on a Marae- Although people do not permanently live on a Marae, you may be able to stay there for a few days overnight. It is important that you never ever walk over another person, sit on a pillow, or pass food over another's head as the head is also considered tapu. There may also be designated areas for people to sleep, so this is also something to be aware of when visiting a marae.
- One more thing whether on a marae or in day to day life, do NOT sit on tables as this is seriously disrespectful in Maori culture.
Complete Marae protocol can be found at:
