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The Maori haka is a fierce dance-chant which has become internationally recognised among sports fans who follow New Zealand’s All Blacks (the national rugby team - a form of football). Poi, soft little balls on lengths of string, which are swung in different patterns, are also quite well known.

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Nga Tai E Rua Performers, Aotearoa Traditional Maori Performing Arts Festival

There are opportunities for visitors to see Maori groups performing haka and songs at museums, special events, and at some hotels, particularly in Auckland and Rotorua. Maori have been described as natural entertainers, and Maori concerts are very lively Performers wear traditional Maori clothing, and offer a wide variety of Maori songs and dances.

Every two years Maori performance groups (kapa haka) compete for top honours at the Aotearoa Traditional Maori Performing Arts Festival.These are stunning occasions where thousands of Maori gather from all over New Zealand to view and cheer the different groups.These festivals showcase Maori music and dance, and offer top class entertainment.

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Waka, Ngaruawahia Annual Regatta

E kore au e ngaro; he kakano i ruja mai i Rangiatea.
I will never be lost; I am a seed sown at Rangiatea.
(Rangiatea is the sacred home - the heartland of the human spirit)