Taiaha Māori weapon Māori spear

The Taiaha (pronounced Tie-uh-ha) is a revered Maori weapon known for its intricate design and historical significance. Crafted primarily from New Zealand Kauri timber, the taiaha is a double-ended weapon used in close hand-to-hand combat, striking, and stabbing. It played a crucial role in the threat dances, or haka, performed by Maori warriors on formal occasions.

Key Features:

  • Upoko (Head): The head of the taiaha features a carved tiki head with paua shell eyes and an arero (tongue), symbolizing defiance. Intricately carved on both sides, the upoko often includes a collar of feathers below it.
  • Tinana (Body): The long, rounded body where the taiaha is held.
  • Rau (Blade): The flat, rounded blade used mainly for striking.

Specifications:

  • Material: New Zealand Kauri timber
  • Size: 1750mm long, 50mm wide, 40mm high
  • Finish: Lacquer clear coat

Cultural Significance:

  • Symbol of Rank: Chiefs often held taiaha during speeches at tribal meetings, signifying their rank.
  • Mau Rakau Training: The traditional Maori martial arts training, known as mau rakau, includes mastering the taiaha. This rigorous training emphasizes balance, timing, coordination, and visual cues.
  • Wero Challenge: The taiaha is used in the wero, a formal challenge to visitors at the marae. During the wero, symbolic blows and strikes are performed, culminating in the laying down of a taki, a symbol of peace, for the visitor to pick up

Proudly made in Northland, New Zealand, our taiaha is crafted in our workshop. It comes with a lacquer clear coat finish, enhancing its natural beauty while providing a protective layer to ensure its longevity and durability.

$980.00

1 in stock

Weight 0.7 kg
Dimensions 1450 × 50 × 40 mm