MAORI WEAPONS

Wars between Maori tribes were commonplace. Fighting usually
took place over territory. Maori warriors were fierce in battle
and the fate of their enemies, when captured, usually involved
being eaten or having their heads shrunk as trophies.

War parties were usually composed of males, however females would
sometimes take part.

Maori warriors were experts in the art of ambush and surprise raids,
appearing and disappearing swiftly and noiselessly into the thick
New Zealand natural rainforest environment. They usually attacked
at dawn. The aim was to kill all members of the enemy war party,
so that no survivors would remain with the risk of "utu" (revenge).

By the time the British started to settle New Zealand in large numbers
in the early 19th Century several unique Maori weapons had been
developed. Each Maori weapon would prove to be deadly when used by
a skilled warrior. Below you will find a list of some Maori weapons:

Mere:
A short flat club usually made from wood, bone, or greenstone. Also know
as a Patu or Waihaka. Used in hand to hand combat. Typical strike zones
for warriors included the temple, the jaw and the ribs. The greenstone
mere was particularly highly prized as it requires an incredible amount
of work to make one. Warriors who carried a greenstone mere were considered
to posses great strength and honor. Today the mere represents the
facing and overcoming the challenges life presents.

Wahaika:
This short club was used where quick in-fighting action required
thrusting jabs. Held by a thong of dog skin through a hole in the
handle and around the wrist and thumb. The indent on the right is
for catching the opponents weapon. With the right flick and twist of
the wrist, the opponent can be disarmed.

Kotiate:
These were prized Maori weapons on the battlefield, as well as being
favored by many chiefs during speech making. The notches on the weapons
sides are for catching the opponents weapon. With the right flick and
twist of the wrist, the opponent can be disarmed.

Taiaha:
One of the most well known weapons of the Maori. A long club typically five feet in length and longer.

Toki Pou Tangata:

Made for ceremonial occasions, characterized by a greenstone blade
and a carved handle.