Tātua

The tātua is a traditional Māori belt which main purpose is to carry objects or arms. Several forms of tātuas serve different functions.[1][2]

Etymology

"Tātua" is a Māori-language word meaning "belt".[3]

Traditional use

Māori warriors were famously known for wearing only a maro (kilt) and a tātua during battle.[4] Traditional tātuas are made of harakeke (flax) and used to carry tools or weapons. It sits across the abdomen and can be passed on from generation to generation.[5]

Tātua kotaras are broad plaited belts used as a defence against spears in the period before a mortal combat.[6]

See also

References
  1. "Definition of tātua". Maoridictionary.co.nz. Retrieved 5 September 2018.
  2. "Definition of tātua". Kupu.maori.nz. Retrieved 5 September 2018.
  3. "Our name and logo". Tatuanui.school.nz. Retrieved 24 October 2018.
  4. "Story: Riri - traditional Māori warfare". Teara.gov.nz. Retrieved 5 September 2018.
  5. "Meaning of Tatua". Tatua.com. Retrieved 24 October 2018.
  6. Te Rangi Hiroa (1926). "The evolution of Maori clothing". Auckland.ac.ns. Retrieved 24 October 2018.


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