They believe that the hongi began when Hineahuone was born. The God, Tane, breathed life into her through her nostrils. Thus, Hineahune was born through the breath of Tane. Today, the hongi is used as a way of connecting with the world around you.
Traditionally, the haka was performed on the battlefield to show strength. The All Blacks perform a haka at the beginning of every game. It is also used at ceremonies and special events. During my first week, the international students were welcomed to the University of Waikato by watching our local group perform a haka. All Māori performances are done to tell a story. Even if you do not know the language, the messages come across through their expressions, movements and tone. (Here are videos of performances from the All Blacks and the Rotorua Secondary School: https://youtu.be/vnvI6V-TtLs)(https://youtu.be/KMby1MQhJJ4) There are other forms of dance performances that are used for other purposes. I have posted a video of one I was able to see at Hamilton Gardens in the album I created for you this week.
The hongi is not only a way to become connected with people but also with the environment around you. Māori are traditionally very connected with the earth. They are the progeny of the Earth Mother, which connects them to nature and all of its inhabitants.
