A T E A

A T E A

From mihimihi to turangawaewae

Atea, the open space on a marae, a courtyard of sorts in front of the wharenui where formal welcomes are hosted and issues are debated.

This space is the domain of the atua/deityTumatauenga, whose sphere was that of war and people.  Those who speak on the atea, most often only men as conforming to tradition encouraged to speak forcefully.  This represents the domineering nature of Tumatauenga.

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I N T E R A C T I O N

T R A V E R S A L

T R A N S I T I O N