The great Māori hip crisis

Why are so many young Māori men suddenly in need of walking sticks?

Something strange is happening in Aotearoa. A medical mystery. A public health emergency, even. One that seems to strike young Māori men the moment they step onto a marae or arrive at Waitangi. I’m talking about the sudden, dramatic rise in the use of the tokotoko (walking stick).

Now, don’t get me wrong, bro - I understand the deep cultural significanc…