The Haka (Ka Mate) Lyrics
All Blacks
Lyrics
"Ringa Pakia
Uma Tiraha
Turi whatia
Hope whai ake
Waeuwae takahia kia kino
Ka mate! Ka mate!
Ka ora! Ka ora!
Tenei te tangata puhuruhuru
Nana nei i tiki mai, whakawhiti te ra
A hupane! A kaupane!
A hupane! A kaupane!
Whiti te ra!
Hi!"
Song & Lyrics Facts
The All Blacks' Haka (Ka Mate) is an iconic Māori haka song and dance that has been performed by the New Zealand national rugby team since 1888. The song was written in 1820 by Te Rauparaha, a Māori chief of Ngati Toa.
It was released on their 2003 album Ka Mate: Traditional Maori Chants, along with other traditional Māori songs. The album was produced by renowned Māori composer Hirini Melbourne. The All Blacks perform the Haka before every match and it serves as a powerful symbol of unity for the team. The lyrics are composed of a combination of Māori words and phrases, which describe the courage and strength of Te Rauparaha's tribe. The Haka is one of the most popular chants among sports fans around the world and continues to be an integral part of the All Blacks' identity.