Mihi - Explanation

Mihi are spoken by the elders of both the Tangata Whenua or local people and the Manuhiri or visitors following the Karakia at the start of the welcoming ceremonies.

On some Marae all the Tangata Whenua speak first and these speeches are matched by the Manuhuri. On other Marae the custom is for the two groups to take turns with the Tangata Whenua having the first and last turns.

Some tribes perform the welcoming ceremony in front of the meeting house or Whare Nui and some on the forecourt or Marae Atea.The Kawa or protocol is set by the Tangata Whenua

A Maori meeting house and Marae Atea.
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