What is school haka?
Kapa Haka. Kapa haka is the term for Māori performing arts and literally means to form a line (kapa) and dance (haka). It involves an emotional and powerful combination of song, dance and chanting. Kapa haka is performed by cultural groups on marae, at schools, and during special events and festivals.
Is the haka taught in schools?
Aquaman star Jason Mamoa even performed a haka before the Aquaman movie premiere. This is taught and performed by students at all school levels as well. It is an example of the Māori culture—or tikanga—being embedded and immersed in New Zealand education and child development.
Is there a Hawaiian haka?
The haka has also come to Hawaii. The University of Hawaii developed its own haka based on a traditional Maori version. UH’s “Ha’a” has lyrics and movements which are entirely Hawaiian in this version of the dance, which has since been adopted by and included in pre-game activities by other sports teams from Hawaii.
Why do they do the haka?
The haka is a type of ceremonial Māori dance or challenge. Haka are usually performed in a group and typically represent a display of a tribe’s pride, strength and unity. Actions include foot-stamping, tongue protrusions and rhythmic body slapping to accompany a loud chant.
Can children do the haka?
Even quite small children can enjoy joining in a haka — they may copy what they see on television or at a kapa haka performance. They’ll learn to sing, copy movements, keep a beat, use te reo Māori and listen to others — and it’s a great workout for their brain and body.
Is Māori taught?
While Māori is one of New Zealand’s official languages and it has been taught in schools for many years, there have never been any curriculum guidelines for the subject. Teachers are also able to tailor the resources to suit the needs of their students.
Is it disrespectful to perform the haka?
The use of the haka outside of New Zealand is controversial, as it can be considered culturally insensitive or offensive.
