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What Is a Hongi?

By Larry Rivera, About.com

Hongi: traditional Maori greeting

Hongi ... traditional Maori form of greeting

© Tourism New Zealand
Question: What Is a Hongi?
Answer: Not to be confused with a hangi, the hongi is the Maori welcome expressed by the rubbing or touching of noses, something akin to the Western custom of kissing someone by way of greeting.

The literal meaning of "hongi" is the "sharing of breath."

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Larry Rivera
Guide since 1997

Larry Rivera
Australia / NZ Travel Guide

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