Puhete

Puhete is a traditional Māori ceremonial greeting and welcome. It is a deeply symbolic ritual that signifies the coming together of two groups or individuals, often marking the beginning of a formal meeting, a visit, or a significant occasion. The word "puhete" itself can be translated to mean "breath" or "life force," reflecting the spiritual and personal connection that is sought during the exchange.

The puhete typically involves a formal pōwhiri, or welcoming ceremony, where the visitors are invited onto the marae, the traditional meeting ground. During the puhete, the host group will perform a wero, or challenge, to ascertain the intentions of the visitors. This is followed by waiata (songs) and speeches from both sides, expressing their mana (prestige and authority) and laying out their purpose. A crucial element of the puhete is the hongi, a traditional greeting where two people press their noses and foreheads together, symbolizing the sharing of breath and the joining of their spirits. This act signifies mutual respect and the establishment of a kinship. The entire process is designed to create a sense of unity and understanding between all participants.