A haka dance is a ceremonial dance in Māori culture that involves vigorous movements and stamping of the feet with rhythmically shouted accompaniment. It is often performed by a group and represents a display of a tribes pride, strength, and unity. Haka have been traditionally performed by both men and women for a variety of social functions within Māori culture, such as welcoming distinguished guests, acknowledging great achievements, occasions, or funerals. Kapa haka groups are common in schools, and the main Māori performing arts competition, Te Matatini, takes place every two years.
The various types of haka include whakatū waewae, tūtū ngārahu, and peruperu. The tūtū ngārahu involves jumping from side to side, while in the whakatū waewae no jumping occurs. Another kind of haka performed without weapons is the ngeri, the purpose of which was to motivate a warrior psychologically. As well as chanted words, a variety of cries and grunts are used. Haka may be understood as a kind of symphony in which the different parts of the body represent many instruments. The hands, arms, legs, feet, voice, eyes, tongue, and the body as a whole combine to express courage, annoyance, joy, or other feelings relevant to the purpose of the occasion.
The haka has its origins in Māori legend, and it is a deeply important part of all blacks tradition adopted from Māori culture. It is both a challenge and a form of spiritual protection to prepare them for battle. Traditionally, haka was performed as part of the rituals of encounter when two parties met or when a visitor was welcomed into the community. Today, haka are still used during ceremonies and celebrations to honor guests and show the importance of the occasion, including family events like birthdays, graduations, weddings, and funerals. While there are some haka that can only be performed by men, there are others that can be performed by anyone and even some women-only haka. Non-Māori are welcome to learn the haka; however, its important to respect the culture and traditions behind the dance.
