Part of what makes the Olympics special is the gathering of so many cultures. Each country has their own ways of celebrating their wins, but New Zealand’s tradition of the Haka may be one of the very best. The Haka started off as a war dance, originating from the country’s Indigenous Māori people. Nowadays, however, you’ll see this dance performed for a variety of occasions, including in sports. It’s fitting, then, that the Haka would be performed at the Paris Olympics.
This amazing moment took place after the New Zealand women’s rugby team took home the gold after a match with Canada. This 19-12 victory marked their first gold medal at the Paris Olympics. It’s also their second straight win in Olympic competition. In other words, this incredible group of women had a lot to celebrate! To do so in a way that represents their country, they performed the Haka right after winning the gold. Watch their chilling performance in the video below.
At first, the women’s chants start off on the quieter side. But then, their voices quickly raise, making the overall performance that much more emotional. This, combined with their movements, never fails to stir up a variety of emotions in viewers. This is true matter if you’re from New Zealand or somewhere on the other side of the world.
New Zealand Rugby Team Delivers Chilling Haka Dance After Winning Gold Medal at the Paris Olympics
“This remains, in my opinion, one of the coolest things to exist in any culture, anywhere,” someone says in the comment section of the performance, with another adding, “Goosebumps every time.”
“I love that the whole world stops for the Haka performances,” a third person shares. “No matter the occasion or location on earth, we all give the respect and space for this beautiful tradition.”
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