Weaponry school
Fifteen-year-old William Maea from Tokoroa won the prestige award at this years maori weaponry school on Mokoia Island, Rotorua.
William received a hand-carved taiaha.
The weaponry school runs during school holidays for a week at a time. It started during Christmas 1981 and is aimed at teaching young Maori boys the skills of taiaha use.
Head instructor Mita Mohi is helped by graduates of the course, who return to Mokoia Island to give instruction to the boys.
Mita says some of the boys come from turbulent backgrounds and need the discipline of taiaha work as well as the chance to succeed at something.
The graduation ceremony these May holidays was attended by parents who were treated to a mass challenge by the boys.
Permanent link to this item
https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/periodicals/TUTANG19840601.2.44
Bibliographic details
Tu Tangata, Issue 18, 1 June 1984, Page 35
Word Count
125Weaponry school Tu Tangata, Issue 18, 1 June 1984, Page 35
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