The Maori Culture and Traditions

The Maori Culture and Traditions

Prior to the arrival of the Europeans, all storytelling and literature was oral in nature and recital. The most widely k known Maori traditions is the “Haka”, or the war dance.

This ceremony was designed to intimidate the enemy prior to the commencement of war but it now has more sportive purpose. The dance is now the chant of the almighty All Blacks New Zealand rugby team.

Another striking aspect of the Maori culture is the intricate tattoos that mark the Maori. Full-faced tattoo was traditionally reserved for men and the practice is now increasingly becoming common as the Maori fight to preserve the old ways.

The Maori cooking is referred to as Hangi or earthen cooking. Food is cooked over hot stones and covered with earth to prevent the heat from escaping. This produces steamed food cooked in an earth oven.