Club (taiaha)

The taiaha (also known as hani) is a well-known type of stabbing club that was made by the Maori of New Zealand before the mid-nineteenth century. A taiaha was made primarily as a double-ended weapon, and was used most often during the threat dances known as haka that were performed by warriors on formal occasions. The engraved end of the taiaha represents a tiki head with a long protruding tongue - a symbol of defiance. When used by Maori, this taiaha would have had the eyes inlaid with paua shell (Haliotis iris, a type of abalone). It may also have carried decoration made from dog skin and hair, and bird feathers. (M. Gunn, Collections Committee, March 4, 2003)