Haka.

The Māori word for dance.

Haka has become one of New Zealand's most recognisable cultural exports. It is performed all around the world, but most famously by the All Blacks and the New Zealand Defence Force. And way back in 2018 even Beyoncé - controversially - gave it a go.

In just four letters, Haka beautifully bridges the gap between ancient traditions and modern cultural identity. Packed into its almost too-playful-sound, the word haka encompasses powerful and rich historic significance; gravitas and intent that extends far beyond its famous but limiting association with rugby.

Native to the Māori people, haka is a dance performed before battle. It served to intimidate opponents, psyching up warriors for combat and demonstrating strength and unity. Not limited to battle, there are different types of haka, designed and performed for various occasions, including welcomes, celebrations, and funerals. Each haka tells a story through its words, movements, and expressions, often recounting tribal legends or historical events. Anyone who has seen the haka performed live, will agree that it really stirs the blood, stops time and arrests the senses.

The most famous haka performed by the All Blacks is called "Ka Mate," composed by Te Rauparaha, a Māori chief, in the 1820s. One can only imagine how Chief Te Rauparaha felt when he first chanted these words 200 years ago. He had just evaded capture by a rival iwi (tribe) and was given shelter by another, who hid him underground in a kumara (sweet potato) pit. Ka mate tells this story, describing how Te Rauparaha shook off adversity to emerge from the darkness of the kumara pit into the light. ”Ka mate, Ka mate, Ka ora, Ka ora - I die, I die, I live, I live.”

Bulging eyes. Sticking out of the tongue. Stomping feet. Slapping the body with hands. Unified leaps. Ka ora.