In New Zealand, We Swing It!
Māori Meaning of Poi
In Hawaiʻi, we eat the “POI”. In New Zealand, they swing it! “POI” is the Māori word for “ball” on a cord. Many years ago, the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand used it to increase their flexibility and strength in their hands and arms, as well as improve coordination.
Today, the women dancers perform the Māori poi, a traditional dance performed with balls attached to flax strings, which are swung rhythmically. Men used it for strength and coordination. Yes, the poi was also used as a weapon during a battle.
I love the grace of the long poi and the rhythmic beats of the short poi. But nothing beats the fire poi balls. They light up beautifully with a variety of geometric patterns.
Click on the first video below as our Polynesian Cultural Center alumni perform at the 50th Anniversary of the Center.