pukana
A Maori term describing the intense, wide-eyed, tongue-protruding facial expression performed during a haka — the traditional Maori war dance and ceremonial performance.
Definitions
A Maori term describing the intense, wide-eyed, tongue-protruding facial expression performed during a haka — the traditional Maori war dance and ceremonial performance. The pukana is not just a silly face; it's a deliberate, disciplined expression of ferocity, spiritual intensity, and challenge directed at opponents or audiences. Female haka performers do it with wide eyes and extended tongue; male performers often combine it with rolled eyes. Seen globally whenever the All Blacks perform before a rugby match, the pukana is one of the most recognizable elements of Maori performance.
The young warrior's pukana was so fierce during the haka that the visiting team visibly flinched.
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(NZ) A contorted face made by a haka performer.
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A pikau is a New Zealand English term for a makeshift knapsack or pack — the kind of improvised carry-on you'd strap together from what's available when heading into the bush or out on the farm. Borrowed from Māori, it reflects the deep influence of the Māori language on everyday New Zealand English. While the term might be considered somewhat old-fashioned today, it's culturally significant and still recognized, particularly in rural and outdoor contexts.