Maori symbols - handmade jewelry

Maori culture

For James Cook and his men, the Maori were certainly an unusual sight when they landed in New Zealand in 1769. They were not only stronger and taller than Europeans of his time, but also tattooed all over their bodies and faces. And then there was their war dance, called the "haka." With wide, rolling eyes and tongues sticking out, they roared wildly at the newcomers. Nevertheless, Maori culture continues to shape the island nation to this day.