South Africa coach Peter de Villiers cautions that New Zealand’s haka risks losing its significance due to frequent performances during the Rugby World Cup.
Since 1905, the All Blacks have showcased the eye-rolling, chest-slapping Maori challenge before Test matches, establishing it as a vital element of the international rugby scene.
Throughout the tournament, groups have utilized social media platforms like Facebook to coordinate ‘flash haka’ displays in various locations including parks, shopping centers, and streets across New Zealand.
Moreover, international rugby teams present for the World Cup have encountered numerous haka performances during official events and school visits.
According to De Villiers, overexposure of the haka poses a risk for New Zealanders as they host this year’s tournament, potentially eroding its importance.
‘There are too many haka around, particularly regarding the World Cup,’ he remarked. ‘To me, it is unique and is losing its intensity, but that is just my perspective.’
‘People are becoming so accustomed to it that it no longer feels like a novelty, and they are losing respect for it.’
A flash haka performance that took place at an Auckland shopping mall earlier this month has garnered over a million views on the file-sharing site YouTube.
Malcolm Mulholland, a Maori rugby historian, expressed that it serves as a fantastic means to showcase New Zealand’s indigenous culture to the global audience.
‘They are organized by Maori, demonstrate Maori culture, and are performed in a contemporary manner, captivating crowds and encouraging them to appreciate a facet of Maori culture,’ he stated.
Nonetheless, signs of haka fatigue are emerging elsewhere; online commentator ‘John’ echoed De Villiers’ concerns in comments posted on New Zealand’s 3News website.
‘It’s an intriguing little dance, but honestly, it’s complete overkill,’ he commented.
‘You can’t walk down the street without encountering someone performing a haka. It’s becoming rather tiresome.’
Buford Balony says: This is the 1st time I’ve ever found myself in agreement with that fool De Villiers. I also resonate with what ‘John’ mentioned as I’ve been saying the same thing for years. Kiwis may start crying over this, but who cares? It’s the truth.