However, it's important to note that not all elders carry a taiaha. While it's often associated with authority and leadership, its use is more symbolic and ceremonial. A taiaha might be used to:
* Emphasize a point during a speech or discussion.
* Mark the speaker's position on the marae.
* Show respect for the occasion and the audience.
Other traditional Maori weapons, such as the patu (club) or mere (adze), are also sometimes used in ceremonial contexts.
It's crucial to be sensitive to the specific context and the individual elder's preferences when considering the use of these items.