Hawaiian warriors were fierce and unrelenting in battle, with the elite Koa being feared and respected. They used more than weapons to win battles, such as their unique martial art Lua. Tattoos showcased the warrior spirit, strength, and bravery, with designs of Koa warriors or warrior items like the traditional Hawaiian spear. On the Hawaiian islands, the Koa were taught to deflect, dodge, or catch and throw back javelins, so their casualties may have been significantly less than the commoners.
The addition of tattoos made a warrior more attractive to women, particularly on their arms, hands, feet, ears, and lips. The professional Koa, whose primary meaning translates into “brave, bold and fearless”, were products of a well-oiled military might evolving beyond any modern preconception of stone-age capabilities. In 1769, Captain James Cook’s crew returned from the Pacific with tales of half-blacked warriors and inked women wearing designs as delicate as lace. Most ancient Hawaiian Koa warriors engaged in combat with the ultimate goal of obtaining spiritual energy and a life force known as Mana.
In Polynesian culture, tattoos symbolize power and cannot be worn by non-warrior Polynesian individuals. Filipino warriors of old earned symmetrical chest patterns after a successful initiation. There are no specific warrior tattoos, but in ancient Hawaiian, feathered god images or ‘aumakua hulu manu are considered to represent Kū. Ku-ka’ili-moku rituals included human sacrifice, which was not part of the traditional warrior tattoos.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| The Evolution of Hawaiian Traditions | by Lyndsey Wilson | The addition of tattoos also made a warrior much more attractive to women. Women also received tattoos, particularly on their arms, hands, feet … | medium.com |
| The Evolution of Ku’s ire, Marquesan/ Ana’ole Polynesian | Initially this client approached me seeking a ‘warrior’ tattoo. Truth is, there are no specific warrior tattoos. Sure, in ancient Hawaiian … | rolandpacheco.wordpress.com |
| Hawaiian Warfare | The chief adornment for warriors was intricate and expressive tattoos. Tattoos were profoundly significant, and either told a story or showed some significant … | tota.world |
📹 Top 10 TERRIFYING Facts About MAORI WARRIORS
The Maori people of New Zealand came from eastern Polynesia in waves of canoes sometime between 1250 and 1300 AD.
Are There Any Hawaiian Royalty Left?
The Royal Houses of Kamehameha and Kalakaua in Hawai'i have become extinct, necessitating the election of the Head of the Royal House by the Ali'i (Hawaiian nobles) from the Ali'i Nui (high chiefs). The prominent surviving Houses are the House of Kawananakoa and the House of Kamakahelei. The role of the Head of the Royal House entails claiming and preserving the legitimacy of the royal lineage, ensuring the continuity of fons honorum to uphold sovereignty in light of the 1893 illegal overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom and the death of Queen Lili'uokalani in 1917.
Today, numerous descendants of Hawaiian royalty exist, with many tracing their lineage back to the original royal families. Notably, Abigail Kinoiki Kekaulike Kawananakoa is recognized as the last living princess of Hawaii, revered by locals. The House of Kawananakoa includes HRH Princess Owana Kaʻōhelelani and HRH Prince Michael Kauhiokalani, maintaining a royal presence despite the monarchy's abolition in the late 19th century.
The connection to royalty persists as members of the House of Kawananakoa are traditionally referred to as prince and princess, reflecting their status as ali'i (chiefs) with ancient ancestral ties. In addition, Princess Elizabeth publicly asserted her position as head of the royal house following the passing of the last ruling monarch. Elizabeth designated her niece, Princess Theresa Owana Kaʻōhelelani La'anui, as her heir and successor.
Significantly, the House of Kamakahelei seeks to bridge connections between Hawaiian royalty and the Royal Houses of the Aztec Empire. The descendants of Hawaiian royalty have made substantial charitable contributions, honoring their ancestors and supporting Native Hawaiian causes.
Despite this lineage, the current status of Hawaiian royalty is complex. Abigail Kawananakoa, who passed away in December 2022 at the age of 96, left behind a legacy including a substantial inheritance that aims to benefit Native Hawaiian initiatives. Her life encapsulates the dual identity of being a direct link to the Hawaiian royal family while also embodying a commitment to advancing Hawaiian culture.
In summary, while the formal monarchy is no longer present, the spirit of Hawaiian royalty lives on through its descendants, particularly within the Houses of Kawananakoa and Kamakahelei, who continue to foster the culture and heritage of the Hawaiian people.
What Do Polynesians Think About Tattoos?
For Polynesians, tattoos have long served as a vital form of storytelling and cultural expression. Traditionally, Polynesian practices were communicated verbally, and tattoos became a significant means of expressing identity and spirit. They are not merely ornamental; rather, they symbolize deep connections to ancestors and the spiritual realm. Each tattoo design holds specific meanings, influenced by the cultural context, and signifies a rite of passage. In Polynesian hierarchies, tattoos can indicate rank and social standing, reflecting the community's structure.
As a Samoan, I embrace the idea of tattoos when performed correctly, acknowledging their importance to many people. Particularly in regions like Samoa, Tonga, and Hawai'i, tattoos can represent sacred oaths to protect communities. Iconic figures, such as Māori rangatira Tāmati Wāka, illustrate the role tattoos play in symbolizing leadership and identity. The intricate designs of Polynesian tattoos encapsulate cultural heritage, history, spirituality, and social structures. They honor lineage and preserve cultural narratives, with each symbol carefully passed down from ancestors.
The acknowledgment of tattoos among indigenous Polynesians highlights their significance, as they can connect one to ancestral teachings. Many young Polynesians share personal stories behind their tattoos, demonstrating the responsibilities and traditions intertwined with this practice. Some emphasize the approach to tattooing as a profound cultural act that carries weight unlike in non-Polynesian contexts. Tattoos are deeply embedded in cultural identity, and their meanings vary across the Pacific Islands.
Tattooing practice in Polynesia has a rich heritage that deserves recognition and respect. The reasons individuals choose to get tattooed differ from those found in other cultures, where tattoos may be viewed more superficially. For Polynesians, tattoos reflect life experiences, birth, and societal ranks. Thus, art forms and symbols in tattooing are not just for anyone; cultural sensitivity is crucial, and it raises questions about who can wear these designs and the implications of doing so.
Overall, receiving a traditional tattoo is viewed as an honor, celebrating a person's commitment to their community and revealing the complex, often underappreciated, cultural significance of Polynesian tattoos.
Did Any Native American Tribes Have Tattoos?
Many Native American tribes employed tattoos as integral components of coming-of-age ceremonies and as tools for harnessing spiritual power, particularly among women. According to National Geographic, chin tattoos characterized by lines extending from a woman's lower lip were once widespread throughout the Americas. These tattoos served as identifiers of specific tribes and the geographic areas they inhabited. Additionally, Native American tattoos were imbued with mystical or spiritual meanings; early inhabitants believed that tattoos could impart supernatural powers or strength to the wearer.
The tattooing process within Native American tribes involved the use of sharpened bones or rocks to carve designs into the skin. Tribes across the continent, from California's Hupa to the southwestern Apache, showcased distinct styles and meanings in their tattoo traditions. This practice was not exclusive to Native American cultures; it was also prevalent among African tribes and various indigenous communities worldwide. However, the arrival of missionaries led to the suppression of these tattooing traditions.
Tattoos among Native Americans have historically been more than mere aesthetic expressions—they are living testaments to deep cultural legacies. Each tribe’s designs are reflective of their historical narratives and social structures, intertwining the realms of spirituality and the world inhabited by deities and ancestors. For example, certain tattoos symbolized milestones such as a young brave's first kill or a warrior's valor in battle, often incorporating specific markings or animal representations unique to each tribe.
Despite long being overlooked by anthropologists and art historians, tattooing represents an essential form of cultural expression. Its resurgence today reflects a renewed interest in these ancient practices. In the past, tattoos served as sacred rituals permeating various aspects of tribal life, including religious practices and military accomplishments. Various Native American groups still participate in traditional facial tattooing; the Inuit, for example, continue their practices, with chin lines being a common motif.
The art of tattooing across tribes may have differed, but the underlying significance remained spiritual and sacred. With a growing number of Indigenous peoples—including Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians—reviving these ancient techniques, contemporary artists like Nahaan are helping reconnect to ancestral practices in regions like the Arctic and Pacific Northwest. As explorations into cultural heritage continue, there is a renewed acknowledgment of the historical and spiritual importance of tattooing among Native American communities, despite limited existing evidence of its full extent over the centuries.
Did Hawaiian Royalty Have Tattoos?
Hawaiian tribal tattoos, known as "kākau," are an integral aspect of the rich cultural heritage of native Hawaiians, deeply rooted in Polynesian traditions. Tattooing was historically significant, particularly among the royal family, who were the most heavily tattooed, alongside court officials and those related to royalty by marriage. The traditional tattoos were crafted using black ink, primarily derived from kukui nut ashes mixed with sugarcane juice, a practice that remains common in contemporary Hawaiian tattooing.
Tattooing in Hawaii was more than mere decoration; it was a sacred ritual and a deeply symbolic practice. The tattoos represented personal and cultural identity, spiritual connection, protection, strength, beauty, and fortune. The process involved traditional methods, such as using an albatross bone to tap ink into the skin, a practice historically led by the Kahuna Kā Uhi, or tattoo priest, who had the unique privilege of marking royalty.
Over time, however, the art of traditional Hawaiian tattooing faced challenges, particularly due to influences from U. S. plantation owners and descendants of missionaries, which led to a decline in the practice.
Despite this historical decline, the resurgence of interest in traditional tattooing has taken place, with artists like Keone Nunes actively working to revive nearly lost tattooing techniques. Contemporary Hawaiians often receive their tattoos in modern studios, blending traditional symbolism with current practices.
Each design in Hawaiian tattoo artistry, called kākau, carries significant meanings steeped in cultural context. The symbolism of these tattoos is diverse, often reflecting the wearer's heritage, clan, personal journey, or connection to their ancestors. The introduction of sailor tattoos inspired by Hawaiian designs in the early 20th century highlights the enduring legacy of this art form, while the word "tattoo" itself derives from the Polynesian "tatau," emphasizing its global impact.
Hawaiian tattoos embody more than just body art; they connect modern Hawaiians with their ancestors and reflect a profound understanding of cultural and spiritual traditions. They convey messages of familial bonds, respect for history, and the importance of maintaining connections to one’s roots.
In summary, kākau tattoos are an essential expression of Hawaiian culture, serving as a bridge between the past and present, linking identity, spirituality, and the ongoing traditions of the Polynesian narrative. For native Hawaiians, tattoos are not merely ink on skin; they are a living, breathing representation of their heritage and beliefs, affirming pride in their rich lineage.
Why Do So Many People In Hawaii Have Tattoos?
Tattoos, or "kakau," are integral to Hawaiian culture, representing social status, achievements, and personal experiences for both men and women. They are seen not just as body art, but as profound connections to spirituality, genealogy, and one’s ancestors, believed to provide guidance and protection. Emphasizing cultural identity and spiritual ties, Hawaiian tattoos have been a revered tradition for centuries, featuring intricate symbols that pay homage to one’s lineage.
The significance of kakau extends beyond aesthetics; it serves multiple purposes, such as denoting rank and marking life milestones. The designs often include representations of sharks, turtles, and geometrical patterns, reflecting personal identity and cultural beliefs. Although tattooing faced decline due to the rise of Western tattoo parlors, many artisans in Hawaii are committed to reviving and preserving traditional techniques and methods, training extensively to honor the legacy of their ancestors.
When foreigners first encountered Polynesians adorned with tattoos, they were often bewildered by these markings. Despite the decline of traditional tattooing practices, the resurgence of cultural pride has led many to reclaim the art form. Special occasions, like the death of King Kamehameha, exemplify how tattoos can signify respect and memorialize important figures in Hawaiian history.
Tattoo practices vary across Polynesian and Micronesian cultures, with Hawaiian tattoos reflecting a deep sense of identity and heritage. Today, while tattoos were traditionally shunned in some workplaces, perceptions have shifted, encouraging individuals in Hawaii to embrace their tattoos as expressions of self-identity.
In essence, Hawaiian tattoos stand as a testament to cultural history, spirituality, and personal empowerment, linking individuals with their past while providing a canvas for contemporary expression. As more people, including the youth of Hawaii, choose to embody their heritage through tattooing, this ancient practice continues to evolve, affirming its indispensable role in cultural narrative and self-representation.
Did Native Hawaiians Have Tattoos?
Tattooing in Hawaii, known as "kākau," has a long-standing history that is intertwined with the cultural identity and heritage of the Hawaiian people. Despite early European perceptions that Hawaiian tattoo art was less detailed or artistic compared to other Polynesian forms, primary records such as journals, drawings, and prints from the time of Western contact play an essential role in understanding its significance and evolution. Originally, tattoos served as markers of tribal affiliation and social hierarchy, a practice that continues to hold importance today as tattoos are seen as symbols of status among men.
The craft of Hawaiian tattooing, which utilizes tools and techniques developed over 2, 000 years ago in Polynesia, is experiencing a revival thanks to dedicated practitioners like Kā Uhi master Keone Nunes and Keli'i, the first Hawaiian tattoo master to receive formal recognition in over two centuries. Traditional tattooing processes involved intricate designs created by tapping ink into the skin with an albatross bone, a method deeply rooted in Hawaiian customs and spirituality.
In ancient Hawaiian society, tattoos were more than body decorations; they encapsulated personal stories, lineage, and spiritual beliefs. Designs often featured symbols like sharks, turtles, and geometric patterns that connected individuals to their heritage and identity. As modern influences emerge, many Hawaiians now opt for contemporary tattoo studios, although there is a growing interest in revitalizing traditional methods of tattooing, reflecting a broader trend of cultural resurgence.
Despite the cultural blending that has occurred over the centuries, with influences from Samoan, Maori, and Tahitian designs, traditional Hawaiian tattooing maintains a distinctive identity. As tattoos gain popularity among both Native Hawaiians and newcomers to the islands, the appreciation of ancient practices has also grown. The ongoing documentation of personal experiences and oral histories concerning Hawaiian tattoo art underscores its significance as a marker of cultural continuity and personal expression.
Today, the resurgence of interest in traditional Hawaiian tattooing highlights the importance of preserving these ancient practices and emphasizes the deep connections between tattoos, identity, and the spiritual belonging of the Hawaiian people. Through ongoing education and cultural acknowledgment, the legacy of kākau carries on, affirming the art form's rightful place in the narrative of Hawaiian culture.
What Does The Kakau Tattoo Mean?
Kakau tattoos are deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture, holding significant cultural and spiritual meaning. They embody lineage, identity, and personal narratives, making their appropriation by outsiders a disrespectful act. The traditional art form of Kakau, unique to the Hawaiian Islands, symbolizes protection, war hula, and reverence for the gods. It serves as a tribute to family ancestors, honoring their customs and values. Kakau tattoos encompass the rich cultural legacy of Hawaii, connecting individuals to their ancestry and nature.
The designs often feature key symbols like shark teeth (Niho), representing various aspects of life and spirituality. These tattoos are created using sharpened tools, resulting in intricate line work and tribal patterns that set them apart from other Pacific tattoo styles. They have been a sacred tradition for centuries, conveying cultural identity and spiritual connection.
While sharing common roots with broader Polynesian tattoo practices, Hawaiian Kakau has its distinct characteristics that reflect individual heritage. Understanding the symbolism behind these tattoos allows for deeper connections to one's lineage. The terminology used in Hawaiian tattooing is significant; Kakau is derived from two words: Kā, meaning "to strike," and Kau, meaning "to place," describing the technique of tattooing.
Specific designs, like the "Three Pillars" symbolizing faith, hope, and charity, serve not only as personal expressions but also as reminders of familial and societal responsibilities. A notable example is the ala maʻi tattoo, which signals a girl's coming of age. This tattooing process, known as tatau, reinforces social hierarchy and lineage, underscoring the importance of ancestral connections.
Overall, Hawaiian Kakau tattoos are more than mere body art; they are powerful representations of cultural identity, personal stories, and spiritual beliefs. The significance of these tattoos lies not only in their artistry but also in the responsibilities they invoke regarding family and heritage, marking individuals as custodians of their ancestors’ traditions.
Did Polynesians Start Tattoos?
Tahiti remains a premier destination for tourists, renowned for its unique legacy of Polynesian tatau, a term for tattooing that originated 3, 000 years ago. Each tattoo design reflects the diverse cultures and identities of the individuals who wear them. The practice of tattooing spread across various Polynesian islands, with Samoa, settled shortly after Tonga, developing its distinctive styles that, while similar, showcase notable differences. This continuity persisted even during the era of Christianity on the islands, unlike other regions where traditions faced more significant challenges.
Polynesia comprises over 10, 000 islands, each boasting its own vibrant tattoo traditions that vary in design, tools, and techniques. Historically, one could identify a Polynesian individual's origins based on their tattoos, as each island's practice was unique yet shared commonalities. The tradition of tattooing, believed to have existed for over two millennia, faced prohibition in the 18th century due to religious influences but began to resurface in the early 1980s. European interest in Polynesian tattoos was sparked in 1769 when explorers like James Cook observed the striking blueish ink designs adorning the local populace.
Tattoo art in Polynesian culture holds deep connections to mythology and social structures. Initially, tattoos were a form of spiritual contact with nature and its unseen forces, accompanied by rituals and sacrifices. Over generations, this art form became entrenched within the customs and histories of the islands. Skilled tattoo masters, known as "tufuga ta," played crucial roles in this cultural expression, guiding individuals through rites of passage while demonstrating personal and communal identity.
Tattooing remains an integral aspect of Polynesian culture, embodying traits like personality, identity, and social status. The earliest traces of this art form can be traced to around 200 CE in the Marquesas Islands, where Polynesian navigators started developing unique tattoo designs. Despite various external influences, the essence of ancient Polynesian tattooing, with its distinct methods, continues to thrive across the islands today.
As one explores the differences and similarities between Marquesan, Samoan, Tongan, and Māori tattoo styles, it's evident that while techniques may vary, the fundamental significance of tattooing as a cultural hallmark remains universally respected and celebrated in Polynesia.
📹 Unveiling the Fierce Koa Warriors: Guardians of Hawaiian Monarchy History & Legacy
Explore the captivating story of the Koa Warriors, the elite fighters who safeguarded the Hawaiian monarchy with unmatched …
The correct term for the bodily markings is Moko not tatoo. Tatoo comes from the Samoan word tatau. The primary purpose of moko is to designate whakapapa or genealogical lines which is a critical part of Maori culture. Moko also signified the roles and functions that an individual played within his tribe whether he was a soldier, a priest, a hunter gatherer or cultivator etc The mere is not pronounced mare but phonetically air as in hair – mair rair but more quickly spoken A war party is not called a hapu thats a sub tribe The correct term is Ope taua. The first encounter between Cook and Maori on the east Coast ended with Maori being killed by by English guns. To say that it was because Maori were acting aggressively is somewhat ridiculous. Can you imagine armed aliens arriving in London or Paris of the time. They certainly would be met with extraordinary hostility and I suspect peoples lives would no doubt be taken. it would be somewhat inaccurate to describe Hongi Hika as the most famous Maori chief. Famous to whom I wonder. Te Rauparaha, Hone Heke, Te Whiti O Rongomai, Sir Apirana Ngata, Potatau te Wherowhero to name just a few are Rangatira(Chief) are just as well known in Maori history . Hongi Hika was certainly notorious for getting hold of guns very early off the Europeans which meant he had significant strategic and martial advantage over his rivals and other tribes. The arrival of European war technologies decimated Maori. This tragic behaviour unfortunately still occurs with armament dealers today albeit in a larger more sophisticated manner Cannibalism had a lot to do with extinguishing mana which is too complex an issue to deal with in this manner and also the pressure on protein for the local diet.
As an American, I have a great deal of admiration and respect for the Maori people/culture. If you really want to learn about these people, really do your research and have an open mind. If I can add some context, I remember perusal a podcast about Australians on American stereotypes. A lot of Aussies that were interviewed said that the main stereotype Americans have on them is that they all “ride around on kangaroos”. First of all, if you did some research on kangaroos, you would see that that was impossible!! You’d have a lot of disabled kangaroos. Second, I’m 51 years old and I’ve been across the United States. I have never heard ONE single person ever say that they thought Australians rode on kangaroos. So, I’ve never heard it, AND I LIVE HERE, how is an Aussie, whose probably never been here, arrive at such nonsense?? The Maori people are very proud and very open about their culture. If I want to know something, maybe it’s best to ask someone who actually lives in New Zealand… and whose ancestry is in New Zealand!! Peace and love to the Maori people 🙏🙏.
This is full of factual errors. He is clearly not from New Zealand, and is reading from a badly prepared script, written by someone who does not know the history of New Zealand. He can’t even pronounce the word mere, which sounds more like the pākeha word “merry”. This post is rubbish, and should be ignored completely.
A kiwi told me some interesting facts about Maoris you may have missed. Once when they were fighting the British, the British had decided to retreat because they were running out of ammunition. The Maori offered them half of their ammunition if they would stay and fight. Another time the British would not invade a particular valley because there was no track through it. Therefore their opponents built one in the hope they would come and fight. My impression is, they loved a fight.
The practices for hahu or nehu (the burial of the body) have changed over time. Traditionally the tūpāpaku were buried in shallow graves, or placed in secret places including caves or trees. In some cases the tūpāpaku would be weighted down with something and buried in the sea or in a deep pool of water. After a time the tohunga would return and collect the bones for the hahunga (exhumation ceremony). The bones were washed, scraped and painted with red ochre, and returned to the marae and mourned over again, in a similar ceremony to the tangihanga. The final committal of these bones was done in secret so that enemies of the hapū could not uncover the dead and desecrate their remains. Cremation was – and is – rare and usually happened in cases of disease, or when the person had died in enemy territory (to prevent their bones being captured by enemies)
Number 3 about heads, you have a picture of someone holding heads who is definitely from a different land and culture, the clothing is not of our Maori ancestry. Also infanticide was not a normal practise. Babies and children were cherished, both boys and girls. Women are the whare tangata. Life simply could not exist without both. Your information is skewed.
I mean, I’m Pakeha (NZ European), and there were a few things that made me go “hold up… that doesn’t sound quite right”. Now, I’m not claiming to know all about the Māori culture, but things like the Moko (face tattoos) I’m sure are more about heritage and genealogy rather than “look how scary and tough I am!”. Also his pronunciation of Mere got me each time, it’s “meh-reh” not “mere” – (pronunced like the word for insignificant.) Maybe he should try actually liaising with some Maori to get his facts fully in line first, rather than relying on websites.
Fun fact: Maori were the creators of trench Warfare. During British war in Ruapekapeka pā, a chief named Te Ruki Kāwiti from the Ngati Hine, Ngapuhi region in Northern Aotearoa, New Zealand and his ally, Hone Heke, (known to have cut down the British flag in 1844, later resulting in a war between the Maori and the British in 1845.) had been said to have invented trench Warfare and British historians also credit Maori for the invention of trench Warfare.
ok firstly the most common place to get a maori tattoo is on your ass & legs, the moko is only the facial part of maori tattoo. the moko on a face shows immediate family history, rank in the tribe, tribal links, occupation. over time maori have used many ways of interring their dead, not just one. Cannabilism was still practiced until the 1860s there are recorded incidents that I have heard of after this.
5:20.. “Cook wanted to interact with the Maori’s peacefully” – wtf?! How do you know? That’s Cooks version of the story. What was Cook doing in their land to begin with? There’s no “misunderstanding”, Cook and his people wanted to colonize. If you going to tell a story, make sure your perspective and motives are clear😒
The Maori were cannibals. When they invaded what we now call New Zealand, there were at least two different people groups living there. One group were red haired and pale and the other light haired. Both groups were savagely murdered and devoured. There was some inter breeding and many Maori still have the red hair dna.
I SWEAR YOUR JUST TRYING TO MAKE MAORI PEOPLE LOOK BAD?! for your information i am a maori citizen myself and i know alot about maori people and their ancestors. For starters a dance is different from a haka, and ‘Kamete’ is not to intimidate anyone, it is actually a haka pohwhiri (a welcoming haka)! For your information? A ‘mere'(?), although it is concede red as a weapon, it is most definitively
Deficiencies in the narrative aside, this clip shows why the Maori are one of the most successful post-colonial indigenous races. They were fit, smart, maintained healthy population controls and their prowess in battle secured them a treaty with the crown that serves them to this day. Their culture and language still endures strong in NZ, among both Maori and pakeha (whites).
A+ for effort, B- for research though. I’m proud to be Maori, 1 of the most humble and fierce races you’ll ever meet. We’re very spiritual people that take pride in our ancestors koz family is important to us. I dunno about the killing of babies not every iwi (tribe) was the same. This is what I know as a male Maori from Te Arawa (Rotorua). Anybody feel free to extend or correct me. 1. Ta moko (tattoos) – is to show our whakapapa (family history), every line is to show who we represent. 2. Haka (“War dance”) – was also used to greet guests, send off our dead and show respect to those who accomplish victories e.g win a rugby game. 3. Mere (meh-deh) – is correct but I bet a lot of kiwis probably cringed at the way you said it lol. 4. Dead reburied – That was the first time I’ve heard of that, I dunno if that’s koz other iwi did this or I just didn’t know. 5. War strategy – I could say was legit, we’re pretty clever like that lol. 6. Head trophies – Was to show victory over rivals and to warn enemies. 7. Captain Cook – I fully doubt the Maori could have started this conflict unless James Cook disrespected that particular iwi. 8. Hongi Hika – You may have got right koz he saw the importance of technology and wanted to learn more to use against enemies. 9. Infanticide – Like I said before family is VERY important to us so I don’t believe this was practiced. 10. Cannibalism – was correct except wairua means spirit. Eating the brain also helped gain enemies knowledge so the higher the ranked enemy the better.
In a first for a Maori feat of engineering, the Institution of Professional Engineers of New Zealand (IPENZ) has recognised Ruapekapeka Pa as a national site of engineering significance. Built by Warrior Chief Te Ruki Kawiti in late 1845, Ruapekapeka Pa consisted of a network of rifle trenches, bunkers, tunnels and a double stockade. It was purpose built by Kawiti to counter European warfare techniques of the time. It provided views over the whole of the contested landscape of the northern campaign. In contrast to traditional pa, Ruapekapeka did not guard borders, command important routes of communication, or protect civilisations. Ruapekapeka Pa could be abandoned without qualm. The aim was to draw British troops to into battle on a difficult site. No major buildings were erected. Instead, underground rooms were built that were designed to withstand heavy bombardment. Kawiti and his men sheltered together in dark bunkers like a colony of bats, an arrangement which gave the pa its name, Ruapekapeka, “the bats nest”. After two weeks of bombardment, the British troops breached the palisades and on Sunday 11th January 1846, they entered the pa. They discovered, as with other Northern War battles, the pa had been abandoned before the troops entered. In the battle, the British suffered a total of 45 casualties, while the Maori killed and wounded numbered about 30. At the end of January 1846, Kawiti and Heke negotiated a peace with Governor Grey. Ruapekapeka Pa was never re-occupied and was left to deteriorate following the battle.
Kia Ora, Understand that it’s not easy for everyone to roll their ‘r’s and Maori pronunciation can be hard. So here are some words that might help out. I always get people to say butter fast not emphasising the t sound so it’s like bara. Say it fast 5 times and you’ll see what I mean. Gets you close to making the rolled r sound. For Maori, it’s like Cloudy, without emphasising the d and then replace the clou with Mao. It’s hard to type out those sounds but give it try. Love all the vids and websites you do, they’re always educational, hope I can give a little back.
The ‘Mere’ is pronounced ‘Meh reh’ … Some of those ‘misunderstandings’ include using some of the natives as ‘target practice’ – to the surprise of the imported militia the ‘natives’ got aggressive. Since the interaction of Europeans seeking to gain resources and dominate the region sales of weapons, disruption of trade, biological warfare, the culture has adapted and changed. Prior to the 1600’s the indigenous population traded and wed between tribes and nations. As did the Aborigines of Australia- they were not ‘a bunch of nomadic hunter gatherers’ but were farmers, trading nationally vast amounts of unprocessed and processed products- including flour. Trench warfare was developed by the indigenous ‘New Zealanders’ in resistance to bombardment of cannon because they wouldn’t move off the land they and their ancestors had lived on for- depending on which tribe- some over a thousand years. They developed it and the British refined it in the Boer wars and later. Sometimes the truth is stranger than fiction. Have a look at some of the Ted X tutorials.
I have read the comments and struck by the unbelievable hostility. If you want Top Tenz to pronounce things correctly or change something that was not correct, he will be happy to. Just attacking someone with vitriolic abuse is pointless. All of you unloading anger are losing an opportunity to bring your rare culture to a wide audience. I would love to learn about it, and this article got me ordering some history books. I can’t afford to go there but I respect all cultures and feel depressed when I look at comments and find only abuse.
The facial “tatoo” is called a Ta Moko, Maoris commonly refer to it as simply moko. Saying the lines showed bravery and strength oversimplifies the moko. Each symbol has a meaning, and they also can display skills like a weapons master, they also from whet I understand are highly specific to the tribe and one side is from one side of the family and the other side is from the other, and thus sometimes you see a half face Moko, and a clean dividing line down the centre. The Haka as well is used in ritual, not even primarily war. I was at a home on my mission where 5 boys father just passed, and as he lay in the corner on the first of 3 days, the kids ripped off their shirts and all did a haka sending their father off. There are a lot of times its used tribally.
Take note: there were many tribes, all who descended from different Polynesian cultures. Meaning that there were definitely tribes with different ideals, beliefs, and traditions. I do not doubt that there was at least one tribe that did some of the things listed in this article but it does not speak for every iwi.
My Tupuna ( ancestor) was a paramount chief higher then a normal chief, he was from a rangatira ( High Chief ) Iine. He had 6 wifes, I belong to the first wife line. My tupuna was a “casanova” he loved his women and he was seen 2 other chief wifes behind there backs as well. One day my tupuna and his first wife and oldest son who was 15 at that time, they went to stay with a hapu ( Village) over the hills for the weekend. The first nite they stayed ( Friday ) nite my tupuna had a premonition dream, that saturday morning when he woke, he told his wife and son to pack up there belongings and go straight home, they didn’t ask why or how come? Because he was a rangitata & it was a no no to question is ability or situations, he said to his wife and son I see yous tonight, he needed to do some thing’s, they headed home with half of his warriors the rest stay remain with him. That nite my tupuna sneak out to meet up with the 2 chief’s wifes, when him and his warriors arrived to the spot where the chiefs wife’s where, they were ambushed by the 2 chief’s and there warriors, my tupuna warriors were killed. They took my tupuna to a canyon on the other side of the hills and murder him by cutting him up in pieces and skirted him 100 metres north, east, south and west why that because know one can find the remains of my tupuna, was a sad lost for his wife’s and oldest son who was next one to the rangatira line, the oldest male line. One day his oldest son who had great respect for other Iwi ( tribes ).
Not everyone had the facial tattoo’s. They were only permitted to those who of distinction. About 10 years ago I was working in a small coastal town in the South Island when local council workers fixing footpaths dug up bones. The local archaelogist (yes there was one in the town) was called. On examination of the site and the bones he pointed out to me the remains of the cooking oven, he confirmed the bones as human and showed me the charring that had ocurred to them, most likely having been cannibalised he said.
I’m Maori and I know a lot of these facts are correct, however I didn’t know about some of these, like the Tangi (funeral) thing. It actually makes sense now that I think about it, since in my Iwi (Tribe) we always wait a year before erecting a headstone. I will be having a look through your sources too. Thanks for the education. Great article. 🙂
Many of these comments smell of factory trolls … claiming to be Maori to cause division and arguements. Half of them spell Maori and other words incorrectly. I doubt their authenticity. They have foreign names and say things like “me this” and “me that”. New Zealanders don’t talk like that. Just putting it out there.
When cook came he had a man called Tupaia. If it wasn’t for Tupaia (who was Tahitian) cooks crew would’ve been dead. And cook did not come in piece. He came and killed a man called Te maro, then left the body there and journeyed to Turanga-a-nui-a-kiwa (Gisborne) and killed the Chief The Rākau, but then put a jacket on the body. The hapu at Rongowhakata then went to kill the crew and some of the crew died. The men who were at the ‘war’ would try hardest to protect, the women. Cannibalism: Māori’s only did that to keep their spirits close with us. And yes it was to earn the enemy hapu’s.
They embarrassed the British Empire at its most powerful. In 1864 the Tauranga mission hit a snag. The Māori were experts in earthenworks. At Gate Pā the British brought forth the most powerful artillery barrage then used against an indigenous people. Half-cocked as always, they lobbed most of the shells into the middle of nowhere having mistakenly believed the flagpole they were aiming at was in the Pā when it was in fact some ways behind it. They shelled their own troops in the process. Eventually the British were in a position to send in the Royal Marines. They stormed the Pā but it was abandoned. Some minutes passed. Suddenly a volley of gunfire felled most of the ranking officers in the Pā, the Māori had unleashed devastating bladts with shotguns from hidden gun slits. Now, what the British didn’t know is that most of the Māori had retreated a few days earlier, before 700 troops had taken position to stop a retreat. Those men of the 68th Light Infantry stormed the Pā which caused more panic, more fighting and more dead British troops. The result was a waste of some 30 tonnes of shells, 21 dead soldiers, 10 dead officers, 80 wounded and all to take a disposable earthen fort. 25-30 Māori were killed. Māori strategy in this conflict is well summed up by the Battle of Gate Pā. They knew they were outnumbered but they didn’t need numbers. It was their home turf. Their enemy would give up if they could cause enough harm to the enemy’s numbers, morale and wallet. This is why the Pā strategy was so brilliant.
Supercool that many NZ peoples r chiming in. Was hoping that some would comment on the THE DEAD LANDS film for which this article used screen capture’s of to illustrate topics here n there… Like the cool green stone club. While perusal the movie I was under the illusion that it might have come from some plant that had ultra heavy stalks like a heavy coco-bolo wood… And was green when fresh ( I thought the dots were like pits like a cactus has pits at the base of it’s thorns… so yep I thought it came from some bad ass heavy cactus/agave like plant! LOL ) I am hoping that movie was accurate! Beside that and the cool ferocity that comes in the dance before Rugby matches… I never knew NZ could be so cool? ( they should re-make the Lord of the Rings but re-imagined with Maori warriors. Wonder if there is an ancient Maori mythos that could substitute for orcs and trolls? That would be an awesome movie! Someone call mr. Jackson! ) But there was something very primal in the movie that iz pretty appealing I think for males who feel that the modern industrial stress inducing responsibilities are perty emasculating at times where destroying ones enemies sounds satisfying! Either way that THE DEAD LANDS movie is Bad Ass if u have not seen it put it at the top of yer must see list! Watch it with yer girl friend! And tease her during the gross parts! Ahhhh! very very satisfying! 🙂
Bro learn to pronounce the words properly and do your research properly if you’re going to make articles about other cultures. Mere = Meh Reh not Mere. Hongi hika = Ho-ngi not Hong-I Hapuu is a sub group of an iwi (tribe) not specifically a war party. Also the first encounter was with Abel Tasman… not James Cook Mana is prestige (or more a metaphysical property of a person and their power) not a person’s spirit Awesome your doing articles about maaori culture but make sure you DO YOUR RESEARCH PROPERLY.
I’m super stoked you did a article on our culture and I understand the challenges of pronouncing a different language correctly. However, I cringed every time you said a Māori word and I wish you’d done a little more research into the pronounciation (especially because you have a large following and I hate to think they’ll now be misinformed). Our language is beautiful and it was awful to hear it butchered. Your facts also weren’t 100% correct which was disheartening at best. When presenting facts as polarising as the ones in your article, it’s important to make sure you have the correct information. We are a small and proud nation and I’d love to see our history and culture better represented. Arohanui 💕
Im guessing my people (scots-irish) would have been terrifying too if this is the bar set for that since we were known to fight mostly or completely naked and used guerrilla warfare on the romans…we also liked to sacrifice the roman officers and send the head back or put them on a stake in front of our doors…bet he pronounces gaelic as bad as the maori language too lol
Ancient Maoris were the masters of warfare, They were the first to think and implement trenches to take cover from bullets. They built on high mountains so the English couldn’t fight with their artillery (Because it was to heavy to go up the mountains). They built inland so the English couldn’t fire their ship cannons, and if they did build near the shore to was on a cliff so they cant fire at the ship. And that’s not all.
OK. many mistakes. mainly pronunciation. number 1 . canabilism is true. BUT not to disrespect or mock, but out of honour to a fallen warrior worthy of respect. Eat his body, absorb his MANA or worth in a spiritual sense. many other minor mistakes but number one is this error I’m a member of Ngati porou, a north island east coast tribe
I enjoyed your description of the “manufacture” of tattooed heads for the tourist market (I had heard of this before) … an early example of entrepreneurship if ever there was one! It demonstrates perfectly that when advantage or profit is on offer, ALL races can be devoid of morals, decency and ethical behaviour, not just colonial powers.
Number 4 is so cap, the Europeans assumed they were under attack while our chief and men were performing a traditional ceremony (they perform to all new comers) on the beach to welcome them when one of Cooks men shot our chief. There was no skull involved it was purely a misunderstanding on Cook’s behalf that led to our Chiefs death, might I add he still managed to get welcomed warmly by some of our other iwi.
Anthro/Archaeologist here… Pacific Islands pre-‘contact’ had very few sources of dense protein (that didn’t come from fish). Humans were by far the largest mammals around and gave the victor a massive protein boost that led to increased muscle mass and therefore further victories. Yes they were eating the Mana spititually, but as with most human customs and practices they were based on some very obvious realities. People are cool… Thanks for the info and education. 🙂
Very dubious about some of these claimed facts regardless of my lifetime experience having been born in Wanganui, Historically a very cultural area of NZ to Maori. For a start the only Maori word this guy could pronounce correctly as far as I could tell was Mana so I wonder if the same effort was made researching and cross referencing his so called facts. Cannibalism yep, and pretty much for the reasons stated but infanticide??? I’ve lived with this culture being pumped my whole life. Maori Language lessons at school, treaty Of Waitangi, story’s, myths, protocols and some of this I don’t think should be believed. I am 4th-5th generation New Zealand European and I think this guy is talking about things he does not know about.
Really sorry team, as a kiwi 🥝 🇳🇿🇳🇿I am really disappointed in the article. Your message was offensive to our indigenous peoples, typical of post colonial ‘white privilege’ perspectives, and represents a view of the colonisation process that nearly destroyed an entire people in a patronising manner. As a proud New Zealander I am offended. I find myself questioning the accuracy of your other content I’ve watched. Such a shame. I used to really enjoy your work.
Hika SOLD OUT his people, set them up in battle with weapons to which they were novice, watched them get slaughtered, took over the tribe (that musket move was a back-door coup) to trade with europeans, so he could go down in the enemy’s “history” as notable and get rich. wow, they really, and feebly tried to write-in a traitor, responsible for the slaughter and subjugation of his people, as a HERO…wow. hey, but it wasn’t like they weren’t murdering, cannibalistic savages, huh? stupid games yield stupid prizes.
Kiā ōra from New Zealand, im a defendant of Hongi’s brother Honē hēke who I think was among others alot more Famous..but that aside ive never in my life heard of some of these..Cook named my hometown Poverty Bay 😂 what a legend..I think no Nation not even America can conpare to the English for been Savages towards another they literary moved onto a piece of land then took it through any means necessary, they forced natives of everywhere they went to comform to their ways of the church through beatings etc..The Mana in our people is still strong today an the culture still thriving.. have an amazing rest of your week bro
Im a maori and i dont see anything wrong with this article, yeah sure some of the info is misinformed but some is true, at the end of the day no book or person alive today can tell you the history of anything, its all been re written millions of times if you dont like what the article is showing dislike and move on, very simple process
bro?! for people perusal this, please take what he is sharing as a grain of salt, or not at all, it is clear he does not understand the cultural significants and depth of what he is sharing. Rather he is seeing the Maori people through a lens of savagery and war, and warping distorting all our taonga into this box.
Why don’t you talk about how Maori people were FORCED to stop practicing their culture! I will give you one example? My grandparents were strapped for speaking their language and went to their grave without a single apology from the PAKEHA…or is this not worth acknowledging…WHY don’t you give 10 facts about Pakeha and their ruthless oppression towards the Maori people and their culture!
You are all wonderful people, please no need to feel defensive. It’s not too surprising that people did those things way back then, as much people from all over the world would do it as well. Humanity as a whole was less advanced back then and all groups of people committed atrocities, regardless of ethnicity. We should want to learn from history rather than try to erase history out embarrassment. No need to be embarrassed. ❤😊 We love you Maoris!!
Moari warriors are more badass then hollywood 300 spartans. Hongi Hika cut enemys head and sold it to europeans??? Checking if the male baby is worthy to live on this earth. Killed and ate there enemys for the ULTIMATE disrespect. Sound like Disney polynesian princess Moana mom side of the family. Crazy as.
Kudos for posting some facts about my tuupuna, but just a friendly heads up – war party is taua in Maori. Hapu is our subtribe, usually named after the founding ancestor of that particular familygroup. On another note, hapu also means pregnant. And yeah, alot of our tribes ate the flesh of our enemies (women/children included) to absorb their life force and strength, but not all. Tumeke effort otherwise 🙂
KA MATE! KA MATE! We’re going to die! We’re going to die! We were at war Chorus KA ORA, KA ORA! We’re going to live! We’re going to live! But now there is peace. Leader KA MATE! KA MATE! We’re going to die! We’re going to die! We thought we were all going to die Chorus KA ORA, KA ORA! We’re going to live! We’re going to live! But now we are safe All together TENEI TE TANGATA PU’RU-HURU This is the man, so hairy Because our leader, so strong and masculine, NA’A NEI TIKI MAI WHAKA-WHITI TE … Who fetched, and made shine the Has unified us and brought back the sunny days of … RA! UPANE! KA…
Cook didnt come in peace. He had every intention of claiming our land as part of the British empire since Tasman was unable to do. A misunderstanding is understatement. Cooks men had the firearms, they were trigger happy scared and fkd up. And to add insult to injury named our area Poverty Bay. Ya just cant rock on over uninvited and expect people to be cool with it.
I’m staggered at the inaccuracies right through this article. The British caused masses of suffering through colonisation of lands throughout the world and yet your arrogance demonstrates that you have learned nothing from it. Best you reserve your articles to the terrifying acts the British have caused.
White people know soo much about the Maori history but dont dare speak of their own genocides in history. I suppose they’re trying to find a scapegoat to make themselves feel better about their own history. History repeating itself. Belittle the natives and make themselves sound superior. Not humbling at all. Huge Egos, a race that could never admit their wrong doings.
Actually, human beings do dastardly things to one another. Just look in the bible, children being fed to Moloch, slavery, the Crusades, the Inquisition, the Spanish conquest of the West, Attila the Hun, Genghis Khan, and on and on. When it comes to empire, colonization, control and conquest, we see in human history, many, many atrocities.
Nice way of putting Captain Cook, a terrible human being, on a pedestal… Britain invaded New Zealand and many other countries. It was not understandable of the British to kill Māori people, the British were invading the country, there’s nothing humane behind Cook and his men’s practises. Ridiculous, smh
Warrior would be a strong word. These people did not have large scale wars, they did not conquer other nations or develop any technological upgrades to further their war ambitions. England despite being engaged in two other wars ar the time, easily went there and conquered the Maori people. Still to this day.
How can an adolescent have a carved tattoo showing courage, strength, loyalty and bravery – when they haven’t demonstrated who they are through the many rites of passage by experience of a full adult life to be able too know if they are true and consistently the warrior that has proven to be worthy of the distinction of greatness from the ordinary Maori.