Pōwhiri

A pōwhiri (also called a pōhiri or pōwiri in some dialects) is a formal Māori welcoming ceremony onto a marae, involving speeches, cultural performance, singing and finally the hongi.

Traditionally, the pōwhiri was a way by which the tangata whenua (people of the land) could determine the intentions of manuhiri (visitors), so as to avoid conflict. Pōwhiri is a cultural practice deeply rooted in Māori mythology. The pōwhiri serves the purpose of spiritually clearing a path for communication, so that the two groups can meet in a safe and productive way. The details of the kawa (customs and protocols) of the pōwhiri vary between marae, but the general structure of the ceremony is broadly similar across all iwi.

Pōwhiri are still commonly practised to welcome important guests onto a marae. A pōwhiri may not be performed for every group of manuhiri or in all circumstances; the mihi whakatau is a similar but less formal welcome that may be used instead. A pōwhiri is often used to welcome the tūpāpaku (the body of the deceased) onto a marae before a tangihanga (funeral). Pōwhiri are also often performed for tourist groups and as part of special events.