KAPA HAKA

They are a Polynesian ethnic group that came to the islands of New Zealand, in the South Pacific Ocean, possibly from islands further north such as Rarotonga or Tongatapu.

The word Maori means "common" or "normal" in the Maori language.

Haka is a Maori word for one of the special types of kapa haka or group folk performing arts characteristic of New Zealand Maori culture. The distinctive characteristic of the haka is that of being a challenge dance/song, which is usually used in wars or sports confrontations, although it is also used to honor guests and show the importance of a timely meeting, such as birthdays, weddings and funerals. They express messages of defiance and competition, but also of hospitality and respect.

Before the arrival of Europeans from New Zealand, the country's first human inhabitants were Maori. It is believed that they arrived between the years 800 and 1300.

Maori make up 15% of New Zealand's total population of 4.5 million.