Maori back internet powhiri

Maori have approved the internet screening of an on-line powhiri on Tourism New Zealand's website, despite controversy over the intellectual property of Maori icons.

The website invites visitors to take part in a virtual powhiri, a Maori ceremony of welcome. Text and images accompany video clips of a powhiri filmed at Waitangi.

Tourism New Zealand hopes the site will motivate visitors to seek out "authentic cultural experiences" when they come to New Zealand.

The concept was developed with the Waitangi National Trust, which spokeswoman Jeanette Richardson said had worked as a team to ensure the on-line powhiri followed protocol.

- NZPA