Māori Martial Art Offers Healing, Empowerment to Students in Hawke’s Bay
Karamū High School, Hastings – A growing number of students, especially women, are turning to mau rākau, a conventional Māori martial art, for physical fitness, cultural connection, and mental wellbeing. The classes, centered around the taiaha – a long, carved wooden staff – are gaining popularity as a pathway to healing from trauma and reclaiming cultural identity, with instructors reporting the practice has even helped avert suicide and steer individuals away from crime.
The increase in participation, especially among wahine (women), reflects a desire for inclusivity in a practice historically dominated by men. “When I heard that they invited wahine I got so excited, I was like yess! That we feel included in something we actually want to do,” said student king. Classmate kara Huata, who began the course six years ago, added, “it’s the most challenging thing I’ve ever done. it’s really cool to see more wahine here and getting involved… it inspires me.”
Mau rākau progresses through eight stages, incorporating 15 strikes and 15 blocks, emphasizing constant movement and energy flow. However, the benefits extend far beyond physical exercise. Instructor Nepe Apatu, also a suicide awareness coordinator, highlights the art’s therapeutic potential. “A lot of it is based around trauma, trauma they’ve grown up with and trauma they can’t release,” he explained, noting the practice provides focus, sharpness, and a sense of self-improvement.
Apatu has witnessed firsthand the positive impact of mau rākau, recalling his own experiences growing up in the 1950s and 60s when he was punished for speaking te reo Māori. ”And I don’t mean just strapped, you’re getting bloody wallopped – they did everything possible to shut you up,” he said. He began learning mau rākau 43 years ago and te reo in 1975, finding deep satisfaction in passing on the tradition. “it gives me great satisfaction.. it’s something that I embellish, and I can instil that in others.”
