Our Haka

haka, ( Maori: “dance”) Maori posture dance that involves the entire body in vigorous rhythmic movements, which may include swaying, slapping of the chest and thighs, stamping, and gestures of stylized violence. It is accompanied by a chant and, in some cases, by fierce facial expressions meant to intimidate, such as bulging eyes and the sticking out of the tongue. Though often associated with the traditional battle preparations of male warriors, haka may be performed by both men and women, and several varieties of the dance fulfill social functions within Maori culture.

The best known Haka of them all is called "KA MATE". It has been performed by countless New Zealand teams both locally and internationally. It was adopted by the NZNRU [New Zealand National Rugby Union] and performed by them at every local and international match since 1906.

Haka are also performed by some other New Zealand national teams, such as the Kiwis (rugby league), the Tall Blacks (men's basketball), the Ice Blacks (men's hockey), and most recently the New Zealand Lacrosse team.^[1][2]