A source of pride or a source of controversy, the haka is an integral part of New Zealand's culture. The haka has always been a vital part of Maori culture and tradition. Today it has a growing influence on the lives of all New Zealanders. It provides a powerful and dramatic vehicle for welcoming visitors, challenging opponents, rejoicing in victory and for celebrating culture and a way of life. This story of the haka begins with its origins in the mists of time and looks at its place in legend and in the early Maori world, and the observations of the first European explorers, missionaries and settlers. It discusses the various haka types, the roles of men and women, the origins and importance of the well-known Ka Mate! haka, and how this special dance has been used in war, sport and politics. The book covers recent developments in haka, such as the rising popularity of national kapa haka competitions, and the new All Black haka: Kapa o Pango.

Author Biography

Wira Gardiner has tribal affiliations to Ngati Awa, Ngati Pikiao, Whakatohea and Te Whanau-a-Apanui. He is the author of two previous books, including a history of the Maori Battalion. He has had a number of high-profile roles in both governance and management, including National Director of Civil Defence, founding director of the Waitangi Tribunal, founding CEO of the Iwi Transition Agency and founding CEO of Te Puni Kokiri/Ministry of Maori Development. He has been Chair of Te Mangai Paho, and deputy chairman of Te Ohu Kaimoana, the trust responsible for advancing the interests of iwi in the development of fisheries. He is the fourth ministerial appointee to the Council of Te Wananga o Aotearoa, and is deputy chair of council at Te Whare Wananga o Awanuiarangi. Gardiner has tribal affiliations to Ngati Awa, Ngati Pikiao, Whakatohea and Te Whanau-a-Apanui. He is the author of two previous books, including a history of the Maori Battalion. He has had a number of high-profile roles in both governance and management, including National Director of Civil Defence, founding director of the Waitangi Tribunal, founding CEO of the Iwi Transition Agency and founding CEO of Te Puni Kokiri/Ministry of Maori Development. He has been Chair of Te Mangai Paho, and deputy chairman of Te Ohu Kaimoana, the trust responsible for advancing the interests of iwi in the development of fisheries. He is the fourth ministerial appointee to the Council of Te Wananga o Aotearoa, and is deputy chair of council at Te Whare Wananga o Awanuiarangi.