Maori Culture

                           

The first thing that flashes in my memory about New Zealand is the Maori . Such beautiful people rich in their culture and tradition. Their lifestyle , their love for nature there is so much to learn about their history. They believe in keeping up their traditions and customs by passing it to their generations. Every Maori story is connected to nature, they believe mountains and rivers are their ancestors. They are also known to be protectors of the earth. Their connection between whanau(people) and whenua(land)is expressed in their relationship with all natural things.

Most of the Maori people have tattoos on their chin or lips. These tattoos are a part of their culture , symbolizing  their tribe and rank.

                                            

 During one of my visit to New Zealand,  I came across a traditional dance called the Haka. 

Haka is their traditional dance and identity of a Maori . I remember attending  a school programme where I witnessed young children doing the Hakka which such expression. This dance has a  lot of expressions, vigorous rhythmic body movements,  foot stamping and  loud chants. Every expression has a story to tell. When you visit New Zealand you will  certainly  come  across the Haka at many tourist places. As i am writing I also remember their mouth watering food called Hangi.

MY PARENTS

I am so mesmerized  by  their traditional food  called Hangi . It is so amazing to see how food is cooked by digging in the ground with layers of food placed on hot stones . It takes couple of hours to cook . 

I had an opportunity to be a part of this festival and could not  believe the food was cooked . Now days they wrap the food in foil earlier they would use leaves. A simple flavor yet the aroma of the smoked meat and vegetables are amazing. 

 

H A N G I

This takes me back to my childhood days where I remember my grandmother cooking food on charcoals. Belonging to a  big joint family , where all my aunts , uncles and cousins lived together . I still remember my grandfather would tell us about their customs and folk tales every night. It's still fresh in my memories, therefore I can connect with these beautiful people. It's amazing to see how they still keep their tradition so alive.

Something unique that I came across is their way of greeting. They usually greet by nose and forehead pressed  against each other. 

Most of the places in NZ have Maori names like Tauranga, Rotoroa Whangarei. One thing I learned that in Maori 'Wh' is pronounced as' f '. Whangarei is pronounced as Fhangarei. So make sure you make a note of this when you visit New Zealand.

 

                                          

Rotorua is one tourist place well known for its Maori culture. So make sure Rotorua is on your  itinerary. I have visited this place a couple of times with my family. It's a long drive but with such beautiful scenes, I'm sure you will fall in love with nature. 

My next blog will be on Auckland and places to visit  from food , to the city , the mall and much more . Stay connected!!!!