Mau Rakau

means ‘bearing arms’, ‘to bear a weapon’ in Maori language

Member Organization(s)

Matarua Federation of Traditional Maori Martial Arts

Introduction

This weapon-based martial art form is said to have originated from New Zealand. Furthermore, this combat form has been developed within the Maori community. There are a few schools that teach Mau Rakau on Mokoia Island.

History

According to the cultural history of New Zealand, Mau Rakau is said to have been developed within the Maori community. Apparently, the weapons such as “Taiaha” and “Patu” were supposed to have been gifted to the community by “Tane” the God of forest and “Tu” the God of War, the sons of Rangi-nui and Papatuanuku according to Maori mythology.

The Matarua Federation of Traditional Maori Martial Arts is promoting Mau Rakau by opening a tournament and organizing events.

References

“Mau Rakau – New Zealand”. Martial Ask.

NZQA (4 November 2010). “NZQA Science & Technology Terms”. NZQA.

Rotorua Daily Post (27 November 2010). “Matarua skill as much art as martial”. NZ Herald.