What traditional close-combat wooden staff weapon features a carved face with a protruding tongue on one end and a blade on the other?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. The taiaha, used for rapid parrying, thrusting, and striking in traditional martial arts (mau rakau)
- Step 1: The taiaha is roughly 1.5 meters long, carved from hard timber like akeake. Step 2. The carved head (upoko) has a tongue (arero) that acts as a spear-point for thrusting, while the flat blade (ate) delivers crushing blows. Answer: The taiaha, used for rapid parrying, thrusting, and striking in traditional martial arts (mau rakau). Why not the others: Training in mau rakau (traditional weapons mastery) remains a revered martial discipline.
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