Taiaha in MADINZ Presentation Box

A Taiaha (pronounced Tie-uh-ha) was a traditional spear of the Māori of New Zealand. The original Taiaha was consisted of the tinana (body), an upoko (head) and an arero (tongue) which comes out of the head. It was adorned with a collar of kākā feathers and hair from a kurī (Polynesian dog). The purpose of the collar was both to add to the beauty of the weapon and to distract the wielder's opponent during battle.

The Taiaha is widely known due to its use in the wero — the traditional Māori challenge during the pōwhiri, a formal welcoming ceremony. A wero is commonly given to heads of state and visiting dignitaries welcomed to New Zealand.

Individual displays of weaponry expertise were often performed during the wero ceremony (ritual challenge to a party of visitors). In full view of the visiting party, a selected warrior would parry invisible blows and strike down unseen foes. He would then lay down a taki (symbol of peace), which was picked up by the visitors, and the welcoming ceremony would continue. Such weaponry displays still occur today during large and important Māori gatherings. Usually, the wero is performed by a lone warrior, but during special events, there might be as many as three. This unique demonstration of Māori weaponry remains part of modern Māori society.

The Taiaha is one of many cultural items which are used to introduce children in school to Māori culture. They are also used in present-day kapa haka competitions, and training with the taiaha is seen as part of the Māori cultural revival.
 
Carved with images of Māori warrior ancestors, the Taiaha acknowledges the importance of connection to our New Zealand history and symbolises a harmonious co-existence.
 
Size approximately 38cm
 
With all the Māori Artefacts we include an information card explaining the historical significance of the gift.
 
MADINZ is the only company in New Zealand that has exquisite high-quality presentation boxes. The box lifts the gift into a different realm as well protects it in transit overseas. Each box is specially designed to complement the gift inside and the box is also a gift in itself.
 
We pack all pieces with utmost care, so they can be sent by courier or hand carried anywhere in the world.
 
For branding, email admin@madinz.co.nz
 
Thank you for supporting New Zealand made.