AUCKLAND — New Zealand reclaimed the world record for the largest mass haka after over 6,000 people performed the traditional Maori war dance at Eden Park rugby stadium in Auckland. The event dethroned France, which had held the record since 2014.
A total of 6,531 participants, including men, women, and children, gathered on the pitch to perform the famous “Ka Mate” haka, popularized by the All Blacks rugby team. The haka, a traditional Maori challenge, involves vigorous movements, stamping feet, and rhythmic shouting.
New Zealand’s successful attempt surpassed the previous record set in France when 4,028 people performed the haka after a rugby match in Brive-la-Gaillarde.
While organisers had hoped for 10,000 participants, they were thrilled to bring the record back to New Zealand, where the haka is seen as a “national treasure.” Michael Mizrahi, the event’s director, expressed pride in reclaiming the record, saying, “It’s got enormous meaning for us as New Zealanders.”
The “Ka Mate” haka was originally composed around 1820 by Maori warrior chief Te Rauparaha. Under New Zealand law, the Maori tribe Ngati Toa, based in Porirua, are recognized as the cultural guardians of the haka.