Decorative Poi

Mrs Reihana showed two other types of poi (see this page). The first was one made of Indian corn leaves instead of flax. The other is a decorated type of poi often seen in modern concert parties. Coloured bands are put round the ball, giving it a brighter effect.

Of course, in olden times the best poi balls were also not the plain but the decorated ones.

Making poi from outer leaves of Indian corn cobs. A ball of torn-up corncob leaves is prepared and enclosed in strips of more leaves which are knotted at their base.

In museums two main types of decorated poi are found: the taniko ones, and the type made of fine flax netting (ta). They were ornamented with six diamond shaped figures made of narrow red and black strips. Dogs hair tufts were attached to them, and they were called poi awe.

A simpler ornamentation like that shown by Mrs Reihana is, however, also attractive, and probably to be preferred to the cellophane type.

The poi is held upside down with the knot above and the last strips being pulled into place. The knot will be pressed and hidden inside the future poi ball.