For some, Māori culture means watching a Haka performance during a football game, or seeing tribal

tattoos on the forearms of burly men. But the traditions of New Zealand’s indigenous peoples are not
only celebrated, but they provide an exciting and magical insight into this beautiful country.

Arriving in New Zealand hundreds of years ago on hand-made canoes, the Māori people brought a
culture that is now a key part of the country’s national identity. Today, the Māori community makes up
approximately 15 per cent of the population, with more than half a million people speaking the native
tongue.

One of the best ways to experience and get a magical piece of insight into this ancient culture is to
experience it yourself. So, if you are planning a trip to New Zealand, don’t forget to pay attention to
these five Māori traditions that will give you a new understanding and appreciation of this fascinating
country and culture.

New Zealand is a young nation, but it is not without its own set of customs. A fusion of Maori and
European cultures has helped this country carve out its own set of traditions. Here are seven traditions
that only Kiwis would comprehend and relate to, to give you a better idea.
Gumboot Day - Taihape prides itself on being 'the gumboot capital of the world' Every year since 1985,
the community celebrates Gumboot Day. The iconic festival is held.

A chocolate carnival on the world’s steepest street - Dunedin's Baldwin Street is renowned for being
the world's steepest street. It's the main venue for the city's annual Cadbury Chocolate Carnival. Giant
Jaffa balls race down the street to kick off the sweet festivities.

The haka - The haka is a traditional Maori war dance performed by the All Blacks rugby team. It is also
performed at special Maori celebrations and rituals. In the past, the haka was used to incite fear and
proclaim the strength of Maori warriors.

The hongi - Not to be confused with a hangi, which is a traditional meal, the hongi is a personal,
customary greeting. The pressing of noses and foreheads is how this physical greeting is exchanged.

Powhiri - Powhiri is a traditional welcoming ceremony for Maori people. Three warriors challenge guests
to see if they are coming into their territory in peace. Presentations, waiata (traditional songs) and
speeches usually follow.
 A hangi - A hangi is prepared underground, using heated rocks that are buried in a pit oven. Food is
placed on top of the stones and covered with flax mats for three hours.

All things Kiwiana - Kiwiana are cultural relics that have helped shape Kiwi identity and the local way of
life. This includes the Edmonds Cookbook, the Buzzy Bee toy, paua shells and Maori carvings.

Meeting and Greeting

- Greetings are casual, often consisting simply of a handshake and a smile.

- Never underestimate the value of the smile as it indicates pleasure at meeting the other
person.

- Although New Zealanders move to first names quickly, it is best to address them by their
honorific title and surname until they suggest moving to a more familiar level or they call you
by your first name.