The Hongi
What is a hongi?
A hongi is the pressing of noses, which symbolises the exchange of the breath of life
When does the hongi happen?
When the tangata whenua side indicates that the speeches are complete, the manuhiri speakers approach the tangata whenua to hongi
What to do
Step 1: use your right hand to squeeze their hand firmly and shake it gently then say “kia ora”.
Step 2: Rest your left hand on their right shoulder softly, they will do the same.
Step 3: lean forward and touch noses for a very short time and if you are shorter than them, they will bend down to you.
Step 4: let go their hand after you are finished.
The hongi is important because it shows to respect each other and show that we are the same so we don’t fight.
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