The traditional Māori welcome to a marae is called a pōwhiri. Sometimes the wero is made before a pōwhiri. This video shows the wero, an ancient Māori challenge used to determine whether manuhiri (visitor) comes in war or in peace. The taki is the dart which is laid in front of the manuhiri who must lift it carefully. If the taki is lifted by its handle, this indicates that the manuhiri does not come in peace.
The people of Taranaki do not wish to incite war. They lay a Raukura (white feather) instead of a taki. The Raukura is a symbol of peace.
The wero is, of course, a symbolic ceremony where both the manuhiri and the people of a marae can demonstrate their peaceful intensions at a Māori welcoming.
I take this opportunity to welcome you as a commenter to come in peace onto my blog. I offer you the invitation to comment and in so doing, lift the Raukura.
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4 comments:
Kia ora Ken
My iwi originate from northern Taranaki and our wahine wear three white feathers in their hair as a sign of peace. It is a beautiful tradition and one I am humbled to see you write about. Naku noa.
Tēnā koe Angela
Nothern Taranaki is a beautiful place that I have visited frequently. Thank you for gracing my blog with your presence.
Peace always.
Ka kite
What a great way to combine ancient culture with modern technology, Ken! And a much more creative way to invite participation than your average "commenting guide." :-)
Tēnā koe Michele!
I must admit that you had me thinking about the task for a while. Not an easy Web2.0Wednesday assignment. But then, you always set brain-searching tasks and this is good.
Ka kite ano
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