Maori game taught in US school: 03-09-2008
A physical education teacher in Pennsylvania, USA has been teaching his students to play the ancient Maori game of ki-o-rahi.
Greg Baney introduced the game to his pupils three years ago and is fascinated by New Zeeland and the Maori culture in particular.
The game involves two teams of between seven and ten players, three concentric circles, a ball and a 'goal' (usually a large rock) in the centre.
"It’s a great game for kids to learn strategy and teamwork," said Baney.
"It takes leadership and cooperation."
The Maoris settled in New Zeeland over 700 years ago and are believed to be the first human settlers on the islands.
The word 'maori' in Maori actually means normal, natural or ordinary and is thought to have been chosen to differentiate humans from deities.
Travellers interested in the Maori people and their culture may wish to visit The Maori Cultural Centre in Whakarewarewa or one of the numerous others throughout the country.