PPoi History

 

The origins of poi can be traced to the Maori of New Zealand. Poi were used by both the men and women and had many significances. Maori men used the poi to improve thier strength and co-ordination during battle, whilst the women practised poi to srengthen thier hands for weaving, and sometimes used them to lull babies and children to sleep with the hypnotising patterns of the long poi. They were also used to imitate sounds of nature such as waves, the wind, and birds flying. They were a great form of self expression.

 

"The twirling poi is often used as a symbol of a young woman's affections.

They are volatile,

but with some energetic training,

they protect her from danger."

 

The word 'poi' simply means 'ball' in Maori.

Traditionally, this consisted of tightly woven native flax to make the ball and rope. However, there are now many different variations of poi as it has become big across the globe, appealing to all kinds of people for many different reasons. Alot of styles have evolved through using different poi, and the movements are often quite flowing compared to the Maori poi dance where poi are hit against the body to create sounds and rhythms.