Martial arts
Short cleaver ‘wahaika’
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“Warfare was a major feature of pre-European Maori society, as groups vied for land and resources…
With the introduction of muskets in the early 19th century, warfare changed, and traditional weaponry took on a ceremonial role. Today there is a strong Maori martial arts movement in New Zealand involving both men and women, old and young. Haka [dance] is a major feature of this…”
Ngarino Ellis, Lecturer in Art History, University of Auckland, 2002
Maori warriors held short cleavers such as this in one hand and struck opponents using a short, jabbing action. The sharpened edge could cut skin easily and break bones. This wahaika may date back to the 18th century.
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