Doing the Haka in New Zealand
The indigenous Maori people bring rich diversity to New Zealand's multicultural population. If you're considering taking a trip Downunder be sure to experience many of the Maori practices and rituals including the popular, Haka.
Considered a New Zealand icon, The Haka is an amazing and intimidating performance to witness. It has been described as a chant or war dance of challenge. While recent tradition suggests the Haka is exclusive to the male population, Maori history hints otherwise. Legend recounts the Haka first being used by Chief Tinirau in revenge for the killing of his pet whale. Story goes that the Chief sent a hunting party of women to the neighboring village to find the man who killed his pet. Upon arriving with no idea who the killer was other than he had uneven teeth that overlapped, the women cleverly performed the Haka to force a smile from the men. When the men smiled the women were able to identify the killer and drag him back to their village to face death. Although a contrasting Maori legend also suggests that the Haka was used as a formal greeting process when tribes came together; tough call to make.
Pulling their strength from the first legend mentioned above, The All Blacks rugby team of New Zealand incorporated the Haka ritual into their matches as early as the 1880's. To symbolize power amongst its players, the All Blacks rugby team has adopted the Haka and performs it before each match. The form of Haka performed is known as the Ka mate!, which translates to Tis death! The dance tells the story of a chief's pursuit and escape from members of the opposite tribe, his fear of being captured and exhilaration of his ultimate survival. Spectators note that a well performed Haka before a crucial game can stir the crowd into wild frenzy and unsettle even the toughest opponent. Today, this fan favorite tradition leads off every All Blacks game and has been performed throughout the world.
So, if you're traveling to New Zealand for school or for fun, you might just pick up a few intimidating dance moves. Be sure to catch a rugby game or two-just be leary of tribes of dancing women, trying to force a smile!
|
|
