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Te Karanga (Welcome Call)
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Before entering the Maori Village / Location,
a Traditional Maori Welcome Call echoes across the courtyard
inviting the Bride and Groom on to the sacred land.
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Te Powhiri (Traditional Song and Dance)
Having entered the Maori Village / Location,
the local tribe then perform a traditional song and dance for the bridal party.
This will be followed by the Hongi (touching of the nose)
a tribal gesture that seals the friendship and goodwill between both parties
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Te Marena (Wedding Ceremony and Vows)
The Maori Priest commences ceremony, couple exchange vows
and are serenaded with famous Maori love song "Pokarekare ana"
(an emotional and heart moving experience)
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Te Manaakitanga (Priest's blessing upon couple)
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At the completion of the ceremony, the Maori Priest then pronounces a blessing upon
Bride and Groom in the form of a prayer,
following this the presentation of a Taonga (Gift) to the couple,
symbolizing new beginnings and happiness,
and finally completing the ceremony with the Hongi (touching of the nose).
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Te Haere Atu (Departure)
As Bridal Party depart, they are farewelled in style with Traditional Maori Song and Dance.
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Te Hakari (Wedding Feast and Celebrations)
Preparations are made to celebrate
the couple's wedding day.
A night of entertainment and
traditional Hangi feast.
On this special evening,
the Maori tribe will honour the Bride and Groom.
In particular the Groom will be honoured
as a Rangatira/Chief.
There will be celebrations and feasting
throughout the night.
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