Poi Social Studies

Poi (Maori instrument/Weapon)...

You will need:

• White plastic bag.
• Black/white or duck tape Tape.
• 3 piece of wool.
• Plat the wool.
• Fluf in the plastic bag.

Poi refers to both a style of performing art and the equipment used for engaging in
poi performance. As a performance art, poi involves swinging tethered weights
through a variety of rhythmical and geometric patterns. Poi artists may also sing or

dance while swinging their poi.POI is the Maori word for ball on a cord

The POI was used many years ago by the indigenous Maori people of
New Zealand to increase their flexibility and strength in their hands
and arms as well as improving coordination.

Wahine (female) dancers perform the Maori POI a dance performed with balls attached to flax strings swung rhythmically. Those pictured to the right are using short POI.