Haka: How a Māori tradition became New Zealand’s cultural icon

New Zealand’s youngest MP, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, performed the traditional haka dance in Parliament on November 14, 2024, as a protest against a bill redefining the 184-year-old Treaty of Waitangi, leading to a temporary suspension of Parliament.
Her performance went viral but this wasn’t the first time she did the same in Parliament. Her first performance was during her maiden speech on December 12, 2023, where she honoured her Māori heritage.
The haka, a traditional Māori dance of New Zealand, is more than just an awe-inspiring spectacle; it’s a powerful expression of culture, identity, and emotion.
Known globally as the fierce war dance performed by New Zealand’s All Blacks rugby team, the haka embodies the spirit and traditions of the Māori people, New Zealand’s indigenous population.

The haka is not merely a dance; it is a powerful narrative of the Māori people. (Photo: Getty Images)

The haka traces its origins to Māori mythology, where it was said to have been created by Tāne-more, the son of the sun god Tama-nui-te-rā and the summer maid Hine-Raumati.
The trembling of the air on a hot summer day is believed to represent Tāne-rore’s dance, a symbol of vitality and energy.
Traditionally, haka was performed on various occasions, from preparing for war to welcoming guests or celebrating achievements, and now the ‘haka’ dance is also a new war cry for the football players to show their energy and will to win in front of their opponents.
Each movement and chant serves as a medium of storytelling, carrying the weight of history, genealogy, and tribal pride.

There are different forms of haka (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

The haka isn’t a singular performance but a diverse tradition encompassing various forms:
Among the most famous is Ka Mate, composed by Te Rauparaha, a 19th-century Māori chief. It celebrates survival and unity, often performed at cultural and sporting events.

New Zealand’s rugby players performing Haka on the field. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

The haka gained international prominence thanks to New Zealand’s national rugby team, the All Blacks.
Before each game, they perform ‘Ka Mate’ or ‘Kapa o Pango’ as a ritual to assert dominance and showcase their heritage. This tradition has captivated audiences worldwide, symbolising unity, strength, and respect for Māori culture.

Haka the rich culture. (Photo: Getty Images)

In modern times, the haka has transcended its origins, becoming a symbol of New Zealand’s identity. However, this global spotlight brings challenges. Concerns about cultural appropriation and commercialisation highlight the importance of understanding and respecting the haka’s deep cultural roots.
Historically, haka were performed in various contexts, each with its unique purpose and style. In times of war, haka served as a pre-battle ritual to intimidate enemies and galvanise warriors.
The Peruperu, a war haka, was characterised by fierce expressions, weapon displays, and synchronised movements, aiming to convey strength and unity.
The haka is more than a performance; it is a living tradition that embodies the heart and soul of the Māori people. Its rhythmic chants and bold movements resonate with themes of courage, unity, and identity, inspiring awe while fostering cultural appreciation.
As the haka continues to enchant the world, its legacy serves as a reminder of the power of indigenous culture to unite and inspire humanity.