The Maori Haka Dance is a Must See in New Zealand!

I remember the first time we saw a traditional haka dance in New Zealand. It was exciting. At first I didn't understand that there was much more to this dance than just an ancient tribal custom. Simply translated, haka is any form of Maori dance. Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand. I am not Maori, I am Pakeha, so this page is written from a non-Maori perspective.

If you are planning a trip to New Zealand you will more than likely visit a Maori cultural event in which haka dances are performed. Haka is used today for a variety of different purposes including greetings, before sporting events, to acknowledge great achievement, at special occasions or just for fun. The traditional Haka "war dance"was performed exclusively by men. However, this is not the case for all types of haka, many of which include women or children.

Here you will predominantly find video clips of the ka mate haka, the most common haka dance seen today. A few videos below are made to be amusing and even include Santa and gingerbread men doing a haka dance.

All Blacks Do the Haka to Prepare for the Rugby "Battle"

The Haka performed by the All Blacks is in the tradition of Haka danced by warriors before a battle. The idea behind it is to proclaim their strength and prowess while intimidating the opposing players. This is one of many traditional uses of the Haka Dance.

New Zealand vs Tonga - Would This Be Called a Haka-off?

My favorite All Blacks Haka video
New Zealand and Tonga, two countries with tribal history, each perform their own "war dance" simultaneously before a rugby match.

Words and Translation of Ka Mate

The Traditonal Haka Lyrics (Chant)

Maori legend explains this story of the Sun God, his two wives and his son Tane-rore, who is generally credited with the origin of the haka.

More Holiday Haka - Performed by Gingerbread Men

A fun creative NZ commercial