Rāhui

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In Māori culture, a rāhui is a form of tapu restricting access to, or use of, an area or resource by unauthorised persons.

[edit] Causes

Rāhui may be imposed for many reasons, including a perceived need for conservation of food resources or because of the area concerned is in a state of 'tapu', due, for example, to a recent death in the area, out of respect for the dead and to prevent the gathering of food there for a specified period. Rāhui may be placed on land, sea, rivers, forests, gardens, fishing grounds, and other food resources. A rāhui is given its authority by the mana of the person or group that imposes it (Barlow 1994:105).

A particular area may be set aside for a special purpose or function. Certain trees may be set aside for as a carving resource; or certain flax bushed for the weaving of a special cloak for a chief. Certain areas may be placed under rāhui requiring them to be left to lie fallow so that the resources may regenerate (Barlow 1994:105).

The custom of rāhui is still used today, and it has similarities to the bans imposed by the present day legal system on the gathering of food resources for conservation purposes; however Māori often perceive such bans on the gathering of traditional resources such as shellfish and native birds as 'another denial of their customary rights' (Barlow 1994:106).

[edit] Notification

A sign or physical symbol may be displayed to show that a rāhui has been imposed. Sometimes a carved or decorated wooden stick or post may be placed in the ground. Natural features of the landscape can indicate the boundaries of the area under restriction. Additionally, people will be informed about the placing of the rāhui (Barlow 1994:105-106).