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Haka is the generic name for Maori dance.
It's an action chant, often described as a "War Dance", but more a chant with hand gestures and foot stamping, originally performed by Warriors before a battle, proclaiming their strength and prowess and generally abusing the opposition.
In modern times, the haka is used in a number of situations. The most famous modern use is its regular performance by New Zealand representative Rugby Union (the All Blacks) and Rugby League teams before commencing a game. It is also performed at certain state functions, such as the welcoming of foreign dignitaries.
Origin of the Haka
According to Maori mythology, the Sun God, Tama-nui-to-ra, had two wives, the Summer maid, Hine-raumati, and the Winter maid, Hine takurua. The child of Tama-nui-to-ra and Hine-raumati, Tane-rore is credited with the origin of the dance.The All Blacks haka
According to legend, the particular haka used by the All Blacks dates to 1810, when Chief Te Rauparaha of the Ngati Toa tribe was being chased by enemies. He hid in a pit, and climbed out to find someone standing over him, who, instead of killing the chief, turned out to be another chief friendly to Te Rauparaha. In relief, Te Rauparaha performed a haka, with the words It is death, it is death, it is life, it is life; this is the man who enabled me to live as I climb up step by step toward sunlight. These words are still used today.Other versions
While the All Black haka is by far the most well known, others do exist. Often, these other haka will be specific to a particular group or organization, and the words of the haka will make reference to this. Many of the more established high schools in New Zealand have their own haka, which generally taught to all students.External links