Poi awe (percussive device)

A poi is a light, circular ball attached to a cord that is twirled with the twist of the wrists in combinations of movements, around and against the hands and body. This example is a very rare type woven in muka (flax fibre) with a technique called knotless netting. It is called a poi awe, due to the presence of the dog-hair awe (tassles) attached as decoration.

Poi are used as visual and rhythmic accompaniments to Māori cultural song and dance performances. Performers might use a single poi or a pair, with either short or long cordage lengths. Traditionally, dried raupō (bullrush) leaves were used as the ball covering, with braided muka for the cords. Today, synthetic materials are used.