The Haka

Steven got to be part of the Haka for his school trip. This is part of a Maori welcome ceremony (Powhiri) that is done when one tribe (iwi) goes to visit another tribe. The host school was standing in rows in the gymnasium, and the visitors are welcomed in with a call/song by a woman (or girl in this case). Once the visitors entered the gym, the hosts begin their haka. It is a war dance that is intended to establish authority, dominance and intimidate any potential threatening visitor. Anyway, the Gis Int students filed in, as the Whakatane students started their haka. Then the Gisborne kids respond with their haka. If you could picture 500 students on the one side and 150 students on the other side facing off and in unison chanting (screaming) and stomping and clapping. It was awe inspiring. And does it ever pump them up to compete!! All of this is followed by speeches, welcome songs, and finally the hongi. This is the equivalent of the Maori hug. But it is a handshake, as you press nose to nose with your host. This is the host saying that "I have shared your air/breath. . . you are part of us and of this place, while you visit here." It was really cool to be a part of.