What is Haka?
Haka is a way to convey an intention, either individually or as a group. This is achieved by combining body and voice. Haka often represents both outward and inner strength. When performing a Haka, you let your entire body speak.
It’s a powerful ritual that can be intimidating. In the Western world, Haka is often mistakenly associated with a war dance. In Maori culture, however, there are numerous occasions for performing these ‘dance rituals’.
For instance, there are Haka performances to welcome people. There are also Haka’s related to warfare, which are incredibly powerful. There are also countless other occasions, such as weddings, funerals, and traditional Maori ceremonies were the Haka can be performed.
What does Haka mean?
Haka is a word derived from the Maori language. The word literally means ‘dance’. The Maori language was on the brink of extinction until recently. Thankfully, it’s making a comeback, with 165,000 speakers worldwide. Haka and the Maori language are closely intertwined. Haka is performed by the Maori as well.
Telling Stories Through Dance
A Haka also serves as a means to tell a story. The Maori didn’t have a written language and thus had no tradition through written word. Haka was a way to transmit stories of ancestors and mythology from generation to generation. This has led to both traditional and contemporary Haka. Even today, new Haka dances are still being composed.
Learning and Experiencing the Maori Culture and Traditions
We would like to express our gratitude to Klaus Wintersteller and Wai Turoa Morgan for taking us on a journey through the beautiful Maori culture. This journey has allowed us to learn and experience the essence of Haka at its deepest level.
Would you like to get familiar with Haka as well? The most enjoyable and activating way to learn and experience Haka is through a Haka workshop. Explore our workshops!
Haka Workshop for Your Company
Are you planning an off-site meeting soon? A Haka workshop can be used as an energetic and inspiring activity for all kinds of events. It can be used, for instance, as an inspiring break during a meeting. Additionally, a Haka workshop forms an original team-building concept for companies. A Haka workshop contributes positively to team dynamics for both large and small groups, and it can be conducted on-site.
