| What is Haka? | |
| The Maori people have always excelled in the art of haka, which is the generic term for Maori dance. | |
|
Henare Teowai of Ngati Porou, an acknowledged master of the art of haka was asked on his death-bed:
"What is the art of performing haka?". | |
|
He replied: "Kia korero te katoa o te tinana." (The whole body should speak). | |
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Ringa pakia Uma tiraha Turi whatia Slap the hands against the thighs Puff out the chest Bend the knees Let the hip follow Stamp the feet as hard as you can Ka mate! Ka mate! Ka ora! Ka ora! I die! I die! I live! I live! Ka mate! Ka mate! Ka ora! Ka ora! I die! I die! I live! I live! Tenei te tangata puhuru huru This is the hairy man Nana nei i tiki mai Who fetched the Sun Whakawhiti te ra And caused it to shine again A upa ... ne! ka upa ... ne! One upward step! Another upward step! A upane kaupane whiti te ra! An upward step, another.. the Sun shines!! Hi !!! | |
