New_Zealand_Haka

New Zealand Haka The origins of the haka are connected back into the mists of time. It is a history that is rich in folklore and legend that reflects Maori heritage. New Zealand has grown up accustomed to the haka since first encounters between Maori and early European explorers, missionaries and settlers. While recent tradition suggests the haka was the domain of men exclusively, legend and history reflects a different story. Indeed, the story of the most famous haka, Ka mate!, proves to be about the power of female sexuality. New Zealanders have grown up with the haka as part of their lives by the use of the haka by sporting teams. They thrill to the spectacle of the All Blacks forming ranks prior to kick off, whether at Twickenham, Ellis Park, Stadium Australia or Stade de France. The modern All blacks perform the haka with pride and with passion. They have reclaimed the dignity and mystique attached to this traditional art form and, in the process, increased its recognition as an icon of New Zealand. Most people believe that the haka is a war dance. This is understandable as many have seen the haka performed as a pre-battle challenge to their opposition. The Haka has come to symbolise the power of the All Blacks and their status in the world of rugby. The team leaves an impression of invincibility and ruthlessness. That impression is in no small part due to the potency with which the All Blacks perform the haka. Today, the New Zealand Army also has its own unique haka, opened and ended by female soldiers, acknowledging their special place in the armed forces. The haka has become a unique form of national expression. Because there are tens of thousands of New Zealanders living overseas, it is highly likely they will engage in the performing the haka in the foreign locations. New Zealand trade delegations and other official functions overseas are increasingly requesting haka groups to accompany them. These are just some of the ways haka is being internationalised. In this global village, the haka is a truly unique symbol of New Zealand identity. For it to endure as an icon, New Zealanders increasingly recognise that the haka must be treated with respect. The haka chant: KA MATE! KA MATE! It is death! It is death! We were at war KA ORA! KA ORA! It is life! It is life! But now there is peace. KA MATE! KA MATE! We're going to die! We're going to die! We thought we were all going to die KA ORA! KA ORA! We're going to live! We're going to live! But now we are safe TENEI TE TANGATA PU-HURU-HURU This is the man, so hairy Because our leader, so strong and masculine, NANA NEI I TIKI MAI, WHAKAWHITI TE RA! Who fetched, and made shine the sun! Has unified us and brought back the sunny days of peace! UPANE! KA UPANE! Together! Keep together! We are all working in harmony, side by side, HUPANE! KAUPANE! Up the step! A second step! Making steady progress WHITI TE RA! HI! Out comes the sun! Ahh! To prolong these sunny days of peace.