Maori Taiaha

A Taiaha is a traditional weapon of New Zealand Maori. It is usually between 5 to 6 feet (1.5 to 1.8 m) in length, it is a wooden close quarters weapon used for short sharp strikes or stabbing thrusts. The Taiaha has three main parts: the arero or tongue used for stabbing the opponent and parrying, the upoko or head , the base from which the tongue protrudes, and the ate or liver, the long flat blade which is also used for striking and parrying.