Marae - the building

Customs and protocols

The welcoming ceremony – what to expect

Things you should not do on a marae

Other general reminders

What you will need to bring

Coming back to the marae

How - A Step-by-Step Guide to the Te Arotūriki Process - CONTINUED

DETAILS OF CONSULTATION PHASE

What to do if your meeting is on a Marae

Things you should not do on a marae

In order for you to avoid embarrassment or insulting one’s hosts, by saying or doing the wrong thing, we provide a general guide to some of the things you should not do:

• Do not talk while entering on to the Marae – it is a gathering of both the living and the dead.
• Do not sit in the front row (unless you are speaking).
• Do not walk out while speeches are in progress, and never walk directly infront of a speaker.
• Do not wear shoes into the main meeting house (whare nui), although shoes can be worn in the dining hall and toilets.
• In the dining hall (whare kai), do not keep places for friends.
• Do not start your meal before the grace (karakia) has been said.
• Never sit on a table or any area (such as a bench) where food is prepared.
• Do not eat or drink in the meeting house (whare nui).
• Do not sit on the pillows in the sleeping room (whare moe).
• Do not smoke in the buildings (unless permission to do so is given).
• Do not use cameras or tape recorders (unless permission to do so is given).