New Zealand Reclaims World Record for Largest Haka
New Zealand has reclaimed the world record for the largest mass haka, bringing the cultural dance back to its roots.
Over 6,500 people gathered at Auckland’s Eden Park on Sunday to perform the haka "Ka Mate," surpassing the previous record of 4,028 held by France since 2014. "Ka Mate," was composed by the Māori chief Te Rauparaha in the 19th century and is one of the most well-known versions of the dance.
The event was more than just a numbers game, though. For many participants, it was about honouring their Māori heritage and celebrating a key part of New Zealand’s cultural identity.
The record-breaking haka was performed to raise funds for the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust. While the goal was to gather at least 10,000 participants, 6,531 people came together to ensure the record returned to New Zealand. Participants included people of all ages, from young children to elders, stomping their feet and chanting in unison.
"Haka is an important part of our culture, and returning the mana of this world record away from the French and back to the land of its origins was vital," said Hinewehi Mohi, cultural ambassador for HAKA and co-founder of the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust.
Guinness World Records adjudicator Brian Sobel confirmed the record and described the experience as "a force," acknowledging the powerful display of cultural pride. Almost a fifth of New Zealand’s 5.2 million population has Māori ancestry, and for many, Sunday’s haka was a symbolic victory.
The haka, traditionally performed to prepare warriors for battle, is now a unifying cultural performance at significant events, most notably by New Zealand’s national rugby team, the All Blacks.
Eden Park’s chief executive, Nick Sautner, praised the event, saying, "It’s more than just numbers – it’s about honouring our cultural legacy on a global stage."
American TV host Conan O’Brien and New Zealand director Taika Waititi were among the celebrities in attendance, adding star power to the event. The crowd performed the haka four times in a row, fulfilling the Guinness World Records requirement for a one-minute performance.
Despite the celebration, the Māori community continues to face challenges in New Zealand. Protests have erupted this year against government proposals to roll back initiatives supporting Māori health and language rights. These issues highlight ongoing struggles for Māori representation and equality, even as their cultural contributions are celebrated on a global scale.
