Ellie' school has been practicing authentic Haka dances and Maori songs to perform at the Maori and Pacific Island Festival.
The Maori and Pacific Island Festival has become one of the biggest festivals in Otago, and there were more than 8000 spectators this year.
The festival was held at the Edgar Center in Dunedin and had more than 2700 preschoolers, primary, intermediate and secondary pupils, from 75 groups around the region, took part in the event which displays the music and dance of Maori and Pacific Islanders.
The Haka is well-known throughout the world. Haka is the traditional dance form of the Māori of New Zealand. The Haka is the generic term for all the Maori dances. It is unique because it is a "posture dance" and it is typically performed by a group. There is stamping of feet and vigorous movements with rhythmic shouting as well. Very intimidating!
(All Black rugby for example- click below on link to watch)
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| http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haka_%28sports%29 |
Click here to watch New Zealand All Blacks Rugby Team performs Raka
Although often seen as a war-like challenge haka is often performed as a welcome or to celebrate achievements by men, women and children. Dance festivals, performances and exhibitions are held regularly throughout New Zealand.
The dances are so impressive! After witnessing group after group performing their own unique hakas at the Festival, I was totally blown away. How wonderful that Ellie gets a taste of the Native Maori Culture in such an authentic way. I love that Ellie's teacher is Native Maori and interweaves all her knowledge into the class room.
I truly think that Montana should integrate our Native American culture into the schools like the Kiwi's do with the Maori.
My kids are learning the native language, dances, food and more in the public schools in New Zealand every week.
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| Ellie's class on TV! |
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| Ellie in the back row |
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| They performed in the Edgar Center |
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| Ellie the first to Exit on the right |
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| A carved representation in contemporary style of Te Au-o-te-whenua, an ancestor of the Kawerau-ā-Maki people. |
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