The Maori have a rich culture, steeped in tradition and legend. Legend is passed down through the generations by story telling - stories that tell of the creation of the islands of New Zealand and much more.
Maraes, (communal "plaza" areas where the Maori people meet), provide a focus for social, cultural and spiritual life within the Maori community. The Marae includes a wharenui (meeting house) and wharekai (dining room).
While in Rotorua we will have a chance to have a traditional maori feast, the Hangi. This is a technique similar to the Hawaiian Umu, using an "earthen oven", which results in the food having a distinctive smoky earthy flavour. Yum!
Maori people define themselves by their tribe, or iwi. Family is very important within the Maori culture, and encompasses immediate family, in-laws and all those connected by blood ties.
Dance for the Maori people is a very important part of their culture. Kapa haka (Maori performance art), incorporates singing, dancing and facial expressions. Each action within the dance has a meaning, tying it to the words. The traditional Maori war dance, known as the haka, is performed by the All Blacks (our National Rugby Team), before each game.
Here is a link to a YouTube of the All Blacks performing a Haka at the beginning of the World Cup Rugby Finals. Its intimidating! All Blacks Perform Haka
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