Story: Traditional Māori warfare – Riri

Toki poutangata

Toki poutangata

This is a toki poutangata or ceremonial adze. It was held by a rangatira and was a symbol of chiefly authority. While it mainly had a ceremonial function, it could also be used as a weapon.

Using this item

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Reference: OL000491

Permission of the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Basil Keane, 'Traditional Māori warfare – Riri - Rākau Māori – Māori weapons and their uses', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/object/37088/toki-poutangata (accessed 3 December 2023)

Story by Basil Keane, published 20 Jun 2012