Maori Death Customs
R.S.Oppenheim
A. H. & A. W. Reed, Wellington, 1973.
First Edition

Hardback in very good condition, no mark/no writing

The tangihanga (ceeremonial surrounding death) was the central ceremonial event in Maori culture and although much changed it remains its importance in Maori culture today.

This study pieces together, from the records made by early visitors to New Zealand, the structure of Maori death ceremonial. It shows the inter-relationships of the tangihanga with the religious, political and economic life of Maoris in the periods of earliest Contact.

Since 1860 profound changes in Maori culture have occured. In spite of this, the tangihanga persists as an important symbol of Maori cultural unity. The author discusses these changes and their significance in modern Maori culture.