Story by Valance Smith

Main image: Kapa haka, Waitangi Day 1947

Kapa haka means traditional Māori dances performed by a group standing in rows.Iwi reputations were based on their ability to performhaka and the expertise of thehaka leader.

There are many different types ofhaka, appropriate for different occasions. Waiata, karanga (art of calling), pao (short impromptu topical songs) andwhaikōrero (formal speech-making) are important features ofkapa haka. These items resemble customs carried out in formal settings onmarae.

In tradition, the firstkapa haka was associated with Tinirau, who told a group of women to perform for his enemy, Kae.

19th-century kapa haka

Christian missionaries tried to stop Māori practisinghaka, waiata and sacred chants. They encouraged Māori to sing hymns to European melodies instead.

In the 1880skapa haka began performing for tourists, often using European melodies with Māori words. Some concert groups toured overseas.

Important visitors such as the British royal family were welcomed with traditional ceremonies, includinghaka.Kapa haka was also featured at celebrations of Māori organisations such as the Ringatū Church and the Kīngitanga (Māori King movement).

20th-century changes

In the early 20th centurykapa haka began performing modernwaiata-ā-ringa (action songs). Many new songs were written around that time.

During the First World War, Māori leaderApirana Ngata of Ngāti Porou encouragedkapa haka to raise money for the Maori Soldiers’ Fund. He collected many traditionalwaiata andkōrero.

Kapa haka attire combines traditional Māori clothing with modern garments. These includepiupiu (flax kilts), pari (bodices), tātua (belts) and tīpare (headbands).Kapa haka often use Western instruments, mostly guitars.

Urban groups and competitions

As Māori moved to the cities,kapa haka were formed in urban areas. They helped people connect with their culture, and preserved Māori language and customs. Many urban groups involved a number of differentiwi.

Akapa haka competition was held at the 1934 Waitangi Day celebrations. There were contests around the country, and in 1972 the first Polynesian Festival was held. From 1983 it was a Māori-only competition. Called Te Matatini from 2004, this national competition is held every two years and attracts more than 40 competing teams, 2,000 performers and an in-person audience of 30,000, with many more watching online.

Kapa haka in the 21st century

In the 2000skapa haka was offered as a subject in universities, and practised in schools, and by other institutions such as the military. It continued to evolve, withhaka andwaiata being written on contemporary and political subjects.