Manuhiri: Who are they?
Tēnā tātou Ngati Whenua whānui.
Introduction:
Manuhiri, in a Māori context, refers to the visitors or guests who come to a marae, a traditional Māori meeting ground. These visitors, also known as waewae tapu or "sacred feet," are typically those who have never been to the marae before. Those that have travelled from a distance are considered "distant visitors" or manuhiri tūārangi.
The term manuhiri denotes a specific status of the visitors, and it is considered a sacred and important role within the traditional Māori protocol.
When manuhiri arrive at a marae, they are often greeted by a kaumātua (elder) who will perform a protective karakia or prayer known as a waerea. This karakia serves to safeguard the manuhiri and the host community from any potential harm during the visit.
The manuhiri are also expected to follow certain protocols and customs, such as organising their kaikaranga (caller), their kaikōrero (speakers), and collecting koha (the donation), from the manuhiri group, to be given to the tangata whenua (host community).
This process is an important aspect of Māori culture, as it represents a relationship between the manuhiri and the tangata whenua, which is based on the principles of hospitality, respect, and reciprocity.
The manuhiri are expected to show respect and humility towards the tangata whenua, and the tangata whenua are expected to provide hospitality and generosity towards the manuhiri.
This relationship is crucial in maintaining the traditional Māori customs and protocols, and it is a fundamental aspect of the Māori social and cultural life.
In summary, Manuhiri in a Māori context refers to the visitors or guests who come to a marae, a traditional Māori meeting ground.
These visitors are considered distant nd are given a sacred status within the traditional Māori protocol, and it is an important aspect of Māori culture, as it represents a relationship between the manuhiri and the tangata whenua, which is based on the principles of hospitality, respect, and reciprocity.
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Metawhenua.
