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Māori People

Polynesian Nation

Indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand who created the Mau Taiaha staff fighting art.

Quick Facts

Date of BirthAntiquity
EraAntiquity–present
Country of OriginNew Zealand
Rank / TitleMau Rākau Cultural Heritage
Active Years1300–present

Biography

The Māori people developed Mau Taiaha within the broader warrior discipline Mau Rākau, mastering the taiaha two-handed wooden staff for thrusting, parrying, and striking.

Associated Martial Arts

Mau rākau (Māori Weaponry)Origin community

The Maori art of weapon fighting, properly called mau rakau; the taiaha is one of its weapons. Both ends of the staff are used — the point thrusts, the flat blade strikes.