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Instructions & Actions for the Maori Haka

The Haka is a type of Maori traditional dancing, performed by a group that may be made up of men or women. Haka is performed for many various functions such as storytelling, welcoming a distinguished guest, or intimidating rivals before warfare. One of the most famous Haka worldwide is the war Haka that is performed by the All Blacks rugby team before matches. This Haka is easy to learn as it is relatively short and made up of simple actions.

Instructions

    • 1

      Stand with your feet apart.

    • 2

      Place your hands down along your sides in time to the beat. Chant the words, "ka ora, ka ora."

    • 3

      Take a step forward with your left foot and chant "tangata."

    • 4

      Pump down with your left fist and chant "puhuruhuru."

    • 5

      Maintain the position and open your hands, chanting "tiki mai."

    • 6

      Step forward with your left foot and pull back the left fist, chanting "wbakawhiti te."

    • 7

      Bend partway down with your left fist down and the right hand touching the left arm and chant "ra hupa."

    • 8

      Mirror the position with your right foot forward and right arm down, chanting, "ka upa."

    • 9

      Stay in the position and chant, "ka upane, ka upane."

    • 10

      Jump up with both arms up and outstretched, chanting, "hi."

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