Maori Haka Dance

Maori

Maori are the indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand, and their story is both long and intriguing. On the basis of oral records, archaeological finds and genetic analyses, historical treatises place the arrival of Maori in New Zealand in the thirteenth century AD. The origin of Maori has been reliably traced to the islands of Eastern Polynesia, and their journey to New Zealand occurred in a number of epic waka (canoe) voyages over a significant period of time. These journeys established Maori as daring and resourceful adventurers, and as one of the greatest navigating peoples of all time.

Haka dance

Contemporary Maori culture has been shaped by the traditions of its rich cultural heritage, with an outward view of the challenges faced by indigenous peoples in a global society. Defining aspects of Maori culture include art, legend, tattoo (Ta Moko), performances (notably Kapa Haka), customs, hospitality and community. Since the early 1980s Maori culture has undergone a renaissance. The regeneration of interest in Maori culture has extended to language, and Maori language programs (such as kohanga reo) are now flourishing.

According to legend, the haka was derived from the sun god Ra. He had two wives: Hine-raumati, who was the essence of summer, and Hine-takurua, the essence of winter. Ra and Hine-raumati lay together and gave birth to a son called Tanarore. On hot, shimmery summer day it is impossible to see the light dancing. Legend has it that this is Hine-raumati’s son, Tanarore, performing for his mother and the wiriwiri or trembling shimmer is today reflected in the trembling of the haka performer’s hands.

dance steps with Maori language

For most people, Haka is a war dance because it was perform by the All Blacks during the rugby competition, the Ka mate! As a pre battle challenge to their opposition.

All Blacks

However, the word “haka” simply means dance, or a song accompanied by dance. Although “dance” is literally similar with “haka”, the word do not do justice to the actions, life force, rhythm, words, themes, style, meaning or history.

Written by: Leo Kan Yoke Loon
Editted by: Leo Kan Yoke Loon