Hongi, our national greetingSTUFF What is the origin of the Hongi? The hongi, a touching of noses, is known around the world as a New Zealand greeting yet not actually used by all Kiwis. READ MORE:* Pakeha hongi rubs Iti 'the wrong way'* Maori mediator gives lesson in hongi etiquette at powhiri* Boris likens hongi to headbutt* Hongi great levelling experience for archbishopHe said the hongi, and the sharing of breath, was a symbolic show of unity between two people. Although often seen on the marae, Clarke said the hongi was, and always had been, an everyday greeting in Māori communities. To have the hongi used by all New Zealanders as a national greeting would be something to celebrate, Clarke said.

Source: Stuff September 17, 2017 03:11 UTC