Tikanga & Customs | Te Ao Māori

Understanding Tikanga

Tikanga Māori refers to the customs, protocols, and values that guide Māori life and social interaction. It encompasses the right way of doing things—matters of etiquette, morality, and spiritual practice that have been passed down through generations. Tikanga is not static; it evolves while maintaining its core principles and connection to ancestral wisdom.

At the heart of tikanga is the relationship between people (humans), the natural world, and the spiritual realm. Understanding and respecting tikanga is essential for anyone seeking to engage meaningfully with Māori culture, whether visiting a marae, participating in ceremonies, or building relationships with Māori communities.

The Marae

The marae is the sacred meeting ground of a Māori community. More than just a physical space, a marae is a place of cultural significance where whānau (family), hapū (sub-tribe), and iwi (tribe) gather for celebrations, mourning, education, and decision-making. The marae serves as the heart of Māori community life, embodying the ancestral connection to land and lineage.

Traditional marae complexes include several key structures, each with specific purposes and protocols. The wharenui (meeting house) is the main building, often decorated with intricate carvings representing ancestors and tribal history. The wharekai (dining hall) provides space for communal meals, while the marae ātea (courtyard) is the area where pōwhiri (welcome ceremonies) take place.

The wharenui (meeting house) is the heart of the marae

Marae Protocol Guidelines

Remove Shoes

Shoes must be removed before entering the wharenui (meeting house). This is a sign of respect and keeps the sacred space clean.

No Food or Drink

Food and drink are generally not permitted inside the wharenui, as this is a sacred space dedicated to ancestors and formal occasions.

Photography

Always ask permission before taking photographs. Some areas or ceremonies may be considered tapu (sacred) and photography may be inappropriate.

Mobile Phones

Turn off or silence mobile phones while on the marae. This shows respect for the sacred nature of the space.

Head Position

It is considered inappropriate to point feet toward people or toward the carved representations of ancestors in the wharenui.

Sit Where Directed

Visitors are usually directed to sit in specific areas. Men and women may sit in different sections during formal proceedings.

The Pōwhiri (Welcome Ceremony)

A pōwhiri is a formal Māori welcoming ceremony performed on a marae. It is the process by which manuhiri (visitors) are received onto the marae and formally introduced to the tangata whenua (hosts). The pōwhiri follows strict protocols and is a deeply meaningful experience for both hosts and visitors.

1

The Karanga (The Call)

The karanga is the initial call from a woman of the tangata whenua (host tribe), welcoming the manuhiri onto the marae. This haunting, melodic call carries deep spiritual significance and establishes a connection between the two groups. The karanga is passed back and forth between women of both parties as a form of dialogue.

2

The Procession

Following the karanga, visitors are invited to walk onto the marae ātea (courtyard). Traditionally, men walk together in a group, and women walk together in a separate group. Walking slowly and with dignity demonstrates respect. The visitors move toward the carved pole (pou) in the center of the marae ātea.

3

Whaikōrero (Formal Speech)

Once assembled, formal speeches are delivered by designated speakers from both sides. Whaikōrero is a sophisticated art form that uses metaphor, humor, history, and whakapapa (genealogy) to address the purpose of the gathering. Speeches are punctuated by waiata (songs) that demonstrate the speakers' connection to their ancestors.

4

Hongi (Pressing Noses)

The formal welcome concludes with the hongi—the pressing of noses and foreheads together, sharing the breath of life (ha). This gesture connects the visitor to the ancestors of the host tribe and symbolically absorbs the mana (spiritual power) of the place. Eye contact during hongi should be gentle and respectful.

5

Kai (Food)

Following the formal ceremony, visitors are invited to share kai (food) in the wharekai (dining hall). The sharing of food removes the tapu (restriction) of the pōwhiri and makes everything noa (common). This time of fellowship is essential for building and strengthening relationships between hosts and visitors.

Tapu and Noa

The concepts of tapu and noa are fundamental to understanding Māori worldview and daily practice. Tapu refers to something that is sacred, restricted, or set apart—it carries spiritual power and requires specific protocols to approach safely. Noa is the opposite: something that is common, accessible, and free from restriction.

Tapu

Sacred or holy
Restricted or forbidden
Charged with spiritual power
Requires protocols and restrictions
Can be dangerous if violated
Example: A newly built wharenui before dedication

Noa

Common or ordinary
Free from restriction
Accessible to all
Everyday and normal
Safe to approach and use
Example: Sharing a meal after a pōwhiri

The relationship between tapu and noa is dynamic. Activities like the pōwhiri ceremony serve to transform the tapu state of visitors into the noa state, allowing them to enter the marae and share kai. Understanding this balance helps explain many Māori customs and practices.

Whakapapa (Genealogy)

Whakapapa is the Māori concept of genealogy and descent—everything has a whakapapa, connecting all living things back to the beginning of creation. In Māori thought, knowing one's whakapapa is essential for understanding identity, place, and purpose. Whakapapa provides the framework for understanding relationships between people, between people and the land, and between people and the natural world.

For iwi and hapū, whakapapa determines rights to land, resources, and authority. Chiefs derive their mana (prestige) from their whakapapa—descending from notable ancestors demonstrates both lineage and responsibility. The practice of introducing oneself through whakapapa (pepeha) is a fundamental protocol when gathering on marae.

Key Māori Values

Manaakitanga

The art of hospitality, generosity, and care for others. Manaakitanga involves looking after guests, supporting community members, and showing kindness to all. It reflects the belief that how we treat others defines our character.

Kaitiakitanga

Guardianship and stewardship of the natural world. Kaitiakitanga recognizes human responsibility to care for the environment for future generations. It represents the reciprocal relationship between people and the natural world.

Whanaungatanga

Relationships, kinship, and sense of family connection. Whanaungatanga emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining relationships within the community and across generations.

Rangatiratanga

Chieftainship, leadership, and self-determination. Rangatiratanga involves the exercise of authority and responsibility with wisdom and care, always considering the wellbeing of the community.

Kotahitanga

Unity, solidarity, and working together. Kotahitanga emphasizes the strength found in collective action and the importance of speaking with one voice when addressing common goals.

Pūmanawa

Generosity and giving freely to others. Pūmanawa involves sharing resources, knowledge, and support without expectation of return, strengthening bonds within the community.

Important Terms

Manuhiri Visitors or guests to a marae

Tangata whenua People of the land (hosts)

Karanga Traditional call or chant of welcome

Whaikōrero Formal speech-making

Waiata Song, chant, or hymn

Hongi Pressing noses together (sharing breath)

Kai Food; also to eat

Mauri Life force or vital essence