<P> A patu is a generic term for a club or pounder used by the Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand . The word patu in the Māori language means to strike, hit, beat, or subdue . </P> <P> These types of short - handled clubs were mainly used as a striking weapon . The blow administered with this weapon was a horizontal thrust straight from the shoulder at the enemy's temple . If the foe could be grasped by the hair then the patu would be driven up under the ribs or jaw . Patu were made from hardwood, whale bone, or stone . The most prestigious material for the patu was pounamu (greenstone). Patu made from pounamu were generally called "mere". Maori decorated the patu by carving into the wood, bone or stone . </P> <P> Types of patu include: </P>

What is the difference between a patu and a mere
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