Silhouette Maori Woman

Wahine Maori are considered the life givers and preservers of their people. Puhi is a term used for a young woman (or daughter) of an Ariki line (high ranking or chiefly). A Puhi is considered a very special woman who was protected at all costs. She was highly tapu (sacred) as she had a huge responsibility to enusre the future of her people. In times of tribal conflict, a marriage with a high ranking chief of another tribe forged alliances which established peace and prosperity.

The Pattern used in the head-band is called Mangotipi, a Mataatua and Tuhoe tribal pattern, which represents the White Pointer Shark. It symbolises strength and power.