In New Zealand, the haka transcends tradition; it is a profound and almost sacred practice, deeply respected and revered. Rooted in the rich culture of the Māori people, the tangata whenua ("people of the land"), the haka is a powerful expression of identity and connection. Far more than a dance or performance, it embodies courage, honor, resilience, and reverence for ancestors. Historically, the haka served various purposes: preparing for battle, intimidating adversaries, celebrating triumphs, and commemorating significant occasions. Today, it remains a vibrant symbol of cultural unity and pride, seamlessly woven into official ceremonies and everyday life. Through the haka, the spiritual heritage of the Māori people continues to resonate, connecting past and present in a living tradition.
The Dance That Tells the Story of New Zealand
New Zealand's modern history is relatively young, spanning just over 200 years since the arrival of the first British settlers. In contrast, the Māori people have called these lands home for nearly 1,000 years, their traditions deeply embedded in the nation’s cultural fabric. Among these, the haka stands as a poignant emblem of their resilience and an enduring connection to the land. It is more than a battle dance—it is a vessel of cultural memory, a way for Māori to honor their past, live their present, and safeguard their future.
According to Māori tradition, the origins of the haka trace back to a story of creation. The sun god, Tama-nui-te-rā, had two wives: Hine-raumati, the summer wife, and Hine-takurua, the winter wife. The haka is said to originate with the arrival of Hine-raumati, whose presence on calm, warm days was revealed through a quivering, shimmering heat in the air. This trembling form was the haka of Tāne-rore, the son of Hine-raumati and Tama-nui-te-rā—a dance embodying life and energy in the vibrant summer air. Today, the haka continues to bridge the ancient and the modern, celebrating the profound connection between the Māori people, their land, and their ancestral stories.
The Only Haka in Romania
My first encounter with the haka remains a vivid memory, one that continues to remind me of the unexpected ways destiny shapes our lives. It was October 21, 1981, a crisp and seemingly unremarkable autumn day. I was 11 years old and in the fourth grade. The day took an unusual turn when my father arrived early to pick me up from school—a rare occurrence that filled me with a sense of excitement. We made our way to the National Stadium, then known as the 23 August Stadium, to watch a rugby match. At the time, I knew nothing about the sport. Watching the players’ warm-up routines, I couldn’t help but chuckle at how these serious, grown men were chasing an odd-shaped ball that bounced unpredictably across the field. Patient as ever, my father explained some of the game’s basic rules, and my initial amusement gradually gave way to curiosity. As the match unfolded, I was drawn in by the sheer energy and intensity on the pitch. Rugby revealed itself to be a mesmerizing blend of strength, strategy, and speed. Even though Romania lost 13-9 that day, it was a valiant effort—an honorable defeat during a time when our team commanded respect on the international stage. That day marked more than just my introduction to rugby. It was also the day I witnessed the haka for the first time—a powerful moment that transcended the game itself, leaving an indelible impression on my young mind. Names like Paraschiv, Murariu, or Caragea still stir a sense of nostalgia among rugby enthusiasts of that era. Yet, the most unforgettable moment from that day wasn’t about the match itself, but what occurred before the first whistle. For the first and only time in Romania, I witnessed a haka. The All Blacks’ warrior ritual unfolded with a power and intensity that seemed to transcend both time and place. Their synchronized movements and fierce expressions carried a gravity I could not fully grasp then, but the emotion it stirred within me was undeniable. It felt as though an ancient, primal force—universal and timeless—flowed through their gestures, reaching out to every soul in the stadium. That first encounter with the haka left an indelible mark on me. The 1981 match, played during a year rife with controversy and tension in the world of rugby, became more than a sporting event. It opened a window into a culture that continues to fascinate me to this day.
Haka in New Zealand Schools
After 43 years, I now find myself in New Zealand, watching with profound pride as my son, a European by birth, performs the same haka with an intensity and dedication that leaves me speechless. Standing in the crowd at the Pasifika Festival, I saw him on stage with the kapa haka team from St. Peter's in Auckland. In that moment, I was transported back to the National Stadium in 1981—but this time with a far richer understanding. The haka was no longer just a fascinating ritual; it had become a living bridge, connecting generations, cultures, and the experiences that have shaped both my life and my family’s. Fate has an extraordinary way of weaving the past into the present, creating unexpected continuities. For me, the haka has transformed into more than a cultural symbol. It is now a profound connection between two worlds: the memories of my childhood in Romania and the new life I have built in New Zealand. Even in 2024, the haka continues to serve as a powerful symbol of unity and tradition. This time, I find myself at the school where I teach, attending the inauguration of our new management team. The entire institution—1,300 boys—has gathered to honor the four leaders of the school, particularly the headmaster, Riley, in an emotional and symbolic ceremony. The moment is marked by a collective haka, an electrifying performance that deepens the bond between students and leaders while evoking a profound sense of shared purpose. More than a tribute, the haka serves as an inspiration for these young leaders, challenging them to guide the school community with strength and vision into the year 2025. Central to this ceremony is the concept of "mana," representing "power," "authority," and "prestige." It encapsulates the responsibilities and values that will guide the new leadership team as they embark on their journey, embodying the spirit of the school and the trust placed in them.
Ka Mate: The Most Recognized Version of the Haka
"Ka Mate" is the most iconic Māori haka, composed by Te Rauparaha, the chief of the Ngāti Toa tribe, during the musket wars in the early 19th century. Around 1820, Te Rauparaha created "Ka Mate" as a triumphant celebration of life after narrowly escaping death during a perilous pursuit by enemies from the Ngāti Maniapoto and Waikato tribes. During his flight, Te Rauparaha sought refuge on Motuopihi Island in Lake Rotoaira. He hid in a kūmara (sweet potato) storage pit, where a woman named Rangikoaea shielded him by standing above the pit, concealing him from view. Emerging from his hiding place into the warmth of the sunlight, Te Rauparaha was overwhelmed with gratitude toward Rangikoaea and her husband, Te Wharerangi, who had protected him. In that moment of relief and joy, he composed "Ka Mate" as a testament to his survival and a tribute to his protectors. This haka became globally recognized through its association with New Zealand’s national rugby team, the All Blacks. For decades, "Ka Mate" was performed before every international match, solidifying its place as a cultural and sporting emblem of New Zealand. "Ka Mate" has indeed become a quintessential cultural and sporting symbol of New Zealand, celebrated for its power and significance. Below is the text of the haka, along with its faithful translation from Te Reo Māori, offering insight into the meaning behind this iconic ritual. The haka begins with an individual invocation, a declaration of bravery and defiance: “Let your courage rise! Be fearless!Let us beware of these haunted hands, Let us protect our wives and children! For you, I defy the storms of hell, While my enemies stand there unaware! How could I tremble before a pack of wolves, Either showing fear or running away? It is impossible, because I would surely fall into the pit of shame, As food for dogs, who want to happily chew me up!". Following this personal affirmation of courage, the group responds with the main body of the haka, imbuing it with unmatched intensity and unity: “It is death, it is death! It is life, it is life! This is the hairy man who brought the sun back, To shine on me again! Then I'll put one foot in front of the other, Until the sun shines before me!". Accompanied by synchronized movements, fierce expressions, and an electrifying rhythm, these words transform the haka into a visceral ritual. It becomes not just an assertion of personal and collective strength, but also a deeply spiritual act, connecting participants to their ancestors and the powerful traditions of their people. The haka is more than a performance; it is a living embodiment of identity, resilience, and unity.
Kapa O Pango
"Kapa o Pango" stands as one of the most iconic hakas performed by the New Zealand national rugby team, the All Blacks. Created in 2005 by Derek Lardelli, a Māori artist and cultural scholar, this haka was crafted to emphasize the team’s profound connection to Māori heritage while embodying the strength, unity, and uniqueness of the All Blacks.
Unlike the traditional "Ka Mate," which has been a part of the team’s legacy for over a century, "Kapa o Pango" delivers a more contemporary and introspective message. It reflects not only the identity and values of the All Blacks but also their commitment to honoring Māori culture. The name itself, meaning "Black Team" or "Black Group," directly references the iconic black uniforms worn by the team, symbolizing their unity and indomitable strength. The performance begins with sharp, synchronized movements and lyrics that inspire unwavering team spirit and resolve in the face of challenges. A particularly poignant moment comes when the players place their hands on their chests, signifying the connection of hearts and spirits within the team. This act, charged with meaning, highlights the collective bond that lies at the core of their strength. Through "Kapa o Pango," the All Blacks have not only deepened their cultural ties but also created a ritual that resonates with audiences worldwide, bridging tradition and modernity in a powerful expression of identity and unity. The ending of "Kapa o Pango," in which the players execute a throat-slashing gesture, has sparked controversy over time, with some interpreting it as an act of aggression. However, this gesture is, in fact, a symbolic act representing the vital breath of life and a powerful declaration of strength and unwavering commitment on the field. It embodies the team's focus, resolve, and readiness to give everything in the pursuit of victory. "Kapa o Pango" is far more than a mere display of physical prowess. It is a cultural statement, reaffirming the All Blacks’ identity as ambassadors of both New Zealand and Māori traditions. The haka commands respect and admiration worldwide, serving as a symbol of unity, collective energy, and the relentless spirit of the team. Here are the words of this warrior ritual, which echo the All Blacks’ dedication and pride: “Let me become one with the earth! This is our rumbling earth. It’s my time! It’s my time! Our supremacy will triumph! I thrive on the energy we have created, This defines us as the All Blacks. Passion ignites us. The essence of our team. The earth will remain before us! Silver Fern! All Blacks! Silver Fern! All Blacks!”. These words, charged with intensity and purpose, encapsulate the spirit of "Kapa o Pango," and the haka as a whole—an unyielding declaration of the strength, unity, and cultural pride that defines the All Blacks.
The Ritual That Unites Generations
The haka holds extraordinary symbolic power, capable of bridging the past with the present, uniting diverse cultures, and connecting generations of people. Over my 23 years in New Zealand, I have had the privilege of experiencing the haka in countless contexts, each offering a unique perspective on this profound and vibrant ritual. I have witnessed the haka at All Blacks rugby matches, where it stands as a declaration of strength, unity, and respect—its intensity electrifying both players and spectators. It has also been part of weddings, where it expresses joy, blessings, and community support for the newly united couple. At funerals, the haka takes on a solemn gravity, serving as a moving tribute to the departed, calling upon the spirits of ancestors, and acting as a bridge between the living and the deceased. I’ve seen the haka in Parliament, symbolizing respect for the country’s cultural roots, and in high schools, where young people proudly assert their Māori heritage. No matter the setting—whether at inaugurations, major sporting events, farewells, or the ceremony of receiving New Zealand citizenship—the haka always finds its place in local tradition. It brings with it a unique energy, a solemnity, and a celebration of life that resonates deeply with all who experience it.
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