The All Blacks haka is one of rugby’s most iconic traditions, captivating fans worldwide with its raw power and cultural depth. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, ABS Rugby explores the history, meaning, and a recent controversy surrounding the haka, ensuring you’re ready to experience this Māori ritual during the All Blacks’ upcoming matches, from the France series to the Grand Slam tour.
A Brief History of the All Blacks Haka
The All Blacks first performed the haka during their 1888-89 New Zealand Natives tour, using Ka Mate, a haka composed by Ngāti Toa chief Te Rauparaha in the 1820s to celebrate his escape from enemies. The tradition grew with the 1905 “Original” All Blacks and became a regular pre-match ritual at home games starting in 1987, led by legends like Wayne “Buck” Shelford. In 2005, the team introduced Kapa o Pango, a haka created by Derek Lardelli to honor the All Blacks’ identity, featuring lines like “It is my time, it is my moment.”
What Does the Haka Represent?
The haka is a Māori war dance symbolizing pride, unity, and respect. For the All Blacks, it’s a mental and spiritual preparation for the game, uniting the team as warriors. Ka Mate tells a story of survival, while Kapa o Pango reflects the team’s legacy as “warriors in black.” The Black Ferns also perform their own haka, Ko Ūhia Mai, showcasing their cultural pride.
Recent Controversy: TJ Perenara’s Haka Leadership
Since Aaron Smith’s retirement after the 2023 Rugby World Cup, TJ Perenara has led the haka, including during the 2024 Rugby Championship. But his final haka in November 2024 against Italy sparked debate. Before leading, Perenara referenced the Treaty of Waitangi, saying, “Forever the strength of the land, forever the strength of independence, forever the Treaty of Waitangi.” This political statement reportedly divided the team, as some players and coaches felt it wasn’t universally approved, raising questions about the haka’s leadership in 2025.
Experience the Haka in 2025
The All Blacks will perform the haka before every 2025 Test match, starting with the France series in July (Dunedin, Wellington, Hamilton) and continuing through the Rugby Championship and Grand Slam tour (Chicago, Edinburgh, London, Cardiff). Don’t miss this powerful tradition—check our Fixtures & Results page for the full schedule, or grab tickets on our Tickets page to see it live! Stay updated with more All Blacks news on our News section.