Suggested events
Māori
Pōwhiri (Welcome Ceremony)
A traditional Māori welcome onto the marae (meeting grounds). Kaikaranga (women callers) and kaikōrero (orators) lead the ritual call and response, followed by hongi (pressing noses and foreheads together) as a greeting. Expect powerful haka performances.
Wedding Ceremony
Often a Christian or civil ceremony blended with Māori elements — karakia (prayers), waiata (songs), and the wearing of kākahu (traditional cloaks). Elders may weave in blessing speeches in te reo Māori.
Hākari (Feast)
A communal feast — food cooked in a hāngī (underground oven) is traditional: lamb, kumara, and root vegetables. The hākari is a celebration of abundance and generosity, with waiata and storytelling throughout.