Pouwhenua is a special type of wooden pole that is used by the indigenous people of New Zealand, called the Maori, for a variety of purposes. It is an important part of Maori culture and is often used as a marker of important places or events.
Imagine a really tall stick that looks like a person standing up straight. It's made out of wood and is often carved with intricate designs that have special meanings. The designs might include animals, symbols, or important people from Maori history.
These poles are often placed at the entrance of a marae, which is a special gathering place for Maori people. The pouwhenua marks this as a special and sacred place.
Pouwhenua are also used to mark important events or milestones in a person's life, such as a birth or a death. They can be given as gifts to honor someone's accomplishments or to show respect.
Overall, pouwhenua are important symbols in Maori culture that represent tradition, respect, and connection to the land. They are beautiful and meaningful objects that have been used for generations by the Maori people.