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tangihanga

A Maori funeral or mourning ceremony in New Zealand.

tɑŋɡiˈænʃəb51 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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#1·Apr 28, 2026

A Maori funeral or mourning ceremony in New Zealand. A tangihanga is far more than a funeral — it's a multi-day communal gathering at a marae where the deceased lies in state and is honoured through speeches, waiata (song), and the presence of family and community. It's central to Maori culture and tikanga (custom), and respected across New Zealand society. Often shortened to 'tangi' in everyday conversation.

The whole community came together for the tangihanga, and the marae was full for three days straight.
Origin: From Maori 'tangi' (to weep or mourn) and 'hanga' (a causative suffix), literally meaning 'the act of mourning'. Editorial expansion authored on Slangora.
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#2·Apr 27, 2026

(NZ) A Maori funeral.

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