What is Maori Poi?
The Maori are a group of indigenous people who live in New Zealand. In the Maori language, poi is a word for a ball on a cord, and Maori poi are an important part of culture for many Maori tribes. Traditional Maori poi consists of two flax strings attached to weighted balls of moss and other materials, while modern poi are often made with synthetic materials, rather than natural ones. The strings are swung rhythmically while dancing or storytelling. The traditions surrounding Maori poi vary from tribe to tribe within New Zealand.