All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson, in response to a post by Joe Marler questioning the haka's purpose in the modern game (for which the prop has now apologised), said "it is part of who we are, it's our DNA. It is not just about the All Blacks, it is about us as a country. It means a lot to us."
So as the world prepares to take in the spectacle once more at Allianz Stadium this weekend when England take on New Zealand, we delve into the story behind the haka.
Origins of the haka in Māori culture
The haka originated within Māori culture in New Zealand, with its roots intertwined deeply in the traditions of the indigenous Māori people. Far from being a mere "war dance," the haka encompasses a variety of forms and meanings, ranging from rituals of peace and respect to displays of unity and strength. Historically, it was performed on occasions of significance, from welcoming guests to challenging foes. Each haka is unique, often dedicated to gods, ancestors, or great leaders, and performed with high intensity, marked by rhythmic chanting, body slapping, foot stomping, and fierce facial expressions.
One of the earliest records of the haka goes back to the legend of Te Rauparaha, a Māori chief of the Ngāti Toa tribe in the early 19th century. Te Rauparaha is attributed with creating the famous Ka Mate haka when he narrowly escaped an enemy tribe by hiding in a food pit. Ka Mate celebrates his survival, and its powerful chant embodies the triumph of life over death—a theme that still resonates in its rugby context.
The haka’s introduction to rugby
The All Blacks were the first to introduce the haka to the sport in 1888. When the New Zealand Native Football team (which included Māori players) toured the United Kingdom, they performed the haka before each game, sharing this piece of Māori culture with international audiences. Though this was initially met with intrigue, the haka quickly became synonymous with New Zealand rugby. It was officially incorporated into the All Blacks' pre-game routine by the early 20th century and has since evolved into an integral component of their identity.
The All Blacks adopted Ka Mate as their pre-game haka, and since the 1980s, the team has also introduced other haka variants, such as Kapa o Pango, a haka designed specifically for the All Blacks and unveiled in 2005. This haka represents the fierce commitment of the All Blacks, celebrating their strength and unity and acknowledging their Māori roots while resonating with players from various cultural backgrounds within the team.
To honour the haka’s cultural integrity, the All Blacks and the New Zealand Rugby Union have worked closely with Māori representatives to ensure that the haka is performed with respect and understanding of its origins.
The haka’s role in modern rugby
In the modern rugby world, the haka is an unparalleled spectacle. Teams and fans alike see it as a symbol of New Zealand’s rugby culture, showcasing respect, pride, and unity. For the All Blacks, the haka serves as a powerful tool to focus and energize the team, while also marking the beginning of an intense athletic contest. The haka sets the tone, inspiring players and intimidating opponents, with its history, symbolism, and intensity reinforcing the respect and cultural importance it holds.
Other rugby nations have taken cues from New Zealand’s haka, developing their own pre-game rituals inspired by native or cultural traditions. Teams from Samoa, Tonga, and Fiji, for example, perform similar dances that carry distinct meanings and stories specific to their heritage.
Cultural significance and controversies
Though widely respected and admired, the haka’s place in rugby has not been without controversy, with Marler's swiftly-retracted comment just the latest in the canon. Sometimes it has been other teams or players' responses - or rules preventing them from responding - to the haka that has formed a spotlight. It can inspire mixed opinions, which arguably makes it all the more interesting. After the latest furore, it is with immense anticipation that fans will wait to see how England front up to it this weekend.
England v New Zealand, Saturday 2nd November (15:10), Allianz Stadium. Live on TNT Sports.
