November 2006 – Hawaiian grading for Manaia performers in the traditional Maori weaponry art of mau taiaha

A number of Manaia performers were in Hawaii for their grading in mau taiaha or ancient Maori weaponry. As members of Maramara Totara, the Maori weaponry school here in London and under the auspices of Te Whare Tu Taaua o Aotearoa, the National School of Ancient Weaponry, all passed, despite the lengthy and strenuous training schedule.

The group were hosted by local Hawaiian people and were privileged to experience the dance, food, martial arts knowledge, generosity and aloha of the people of Hawaii.