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TAURANGA, New Zealand

We were fortunate to visit the Hangarau Marae.     This is the gathering place of the Ngati Rangihui Tribe.    We were part of a formal welcoming ceremony.      

We lined up, women leading the way.    Once inside the grounds, we chose our spokesman   (it must be a man).     I tried to get Bob to volunteer, but he didn't pick up my signals - or chose to ignore them.    

The local warrior approaches and asks if we enter with peaceful intentions.      After a yes from our spokesman, the warrior places an offering on the ground.    When our spokesman picks it up they know we have come in peace.

A tribal woman began a chant to welcome us.   This is followed by a moment of silence to remember the dead.   We then take seats, men in front.

The Hongi greeting involves touching noses and foreheads.    This is the most sacred and important part of the ceremony as it represents sharing life, peace and knowledge.

Obviously I did not take pictures during this ceremony but the warrior gave us many opportunities to photograph him afterwards.

We were allowed into the house of worship.

This is some of the interior decor.

The grounds of this sacred area were very calm and serene.

In the Maori culture, sticking our your tongue during the haka dance is a sign of defiance and readiness for battle.     This is now a symbol of fearlessness and strength that's become an iconic part of New Zealand heritage.

Our next stop is this High School where some of the students performed for us.      There are competitions for these students, much like our Show Choirs.

Farewell to Tauranga.    We are now fearless and have great strength.