A traditional Maori welcome for the President

President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Dr Hiria Hape pressing their noses and clasping hands in the traditional Maori greeting known as the hongi during a ceremonial welcome outside Government House in Wellington yesterday. Dr Hape is the Government House k
PHOTO: MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION

President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Dr Hiria Hape pressing their noses and clasping hands in the traditional Maori greeting known as the hongi during a ceremonial welcome outside Government House in Wellington yesterday.

Dr Hape is the Government House kuia, or female elder. Beside them, Mrs Mary Tan exchanged similar greetings with Mr Lewis Moeau, Government House kaumatua, or elder.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on October 28, 2015, with the headline A traditional Maori welcome for the President. Subscribe