Poroporoaki, or speeches of farewell, are reserved for the final part of the powhiri but are by no means the least important part of the process.
The use of the word Poroporoaki is actually relatively new to the people of the northern tribes. It has come to replace the more traditional term Mihi-whakamutunga (the final speeches).
| Waitangi National Trust Reserve, Bay of Islands |
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Poroporoaki signify the act of farewell and the return of mana (esteem and authority) to the host people. It is often a sad occasion for Maori, especially the elderly, for the next time they meet could be in the presence of our ancestors. And for others, the experience of the powhiri may never happen again.
So before leaving the marae, pause for a while. Reflect upon the welcome and hospitality that you and your ancestors have received in the tradition of the Maori people of Aotearoa New Zealand.
You have experienced something special, something unique.
Although the powhiri has concluded, the experience will live on. Never forget that for a brief time in your life, you were Maori - tangata whenua - a person of the land.
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