03:56Thousands of people in Auckland successfully reclaimed the world record for the largest Haka performance from France during a spectacular event at Eden Park on Saturday.
The Haka, a traditional Maori ceremonial dance, features vigorous movements, foot stomping, and rhythmic chanting. It has significant cultural importance and is often performed by tribes for various social functions, including welcoming distinguished guests and celebrating notable achievements.
Footage captured the excitement as participants engaged in the traditional Maori dance, with some leading the crowd from the stage and others practising various Maori ceremonies ahead of the record-breaking performance.
"Just to be part of history, to get the title back from France to New Zealand, I think it's just an amazing thing," participant Ngaire said.
She added that it not just highlights Maori culture but 'brings everyone together', saying "it's so great to see Maori and non-Maori, it's awesome."
Rawiri, a Maori participant, agreed, saying that "it's just part of my culture and who we are and being a part of something bigger for Aotearoa [New Zealand]."
"Once in a lifetime opportunity, hopefully, and so that we can do it next to our younger generation," another participant said. "Leave something for the next generation to pursue."
The previous record was held by 4,028 people from France in 2014. New Zealand broke this record with an impressive 6,531 participants at Eden Park, performing the Haka Ka Mate, composed by Te Rauparaha, chief of Ngati Toa Rangatira.
Guinness World Records adjudicator Brian Sobel confirmed the official count of 6,531, pending a review, according to media reports.
'Get the title back!' - New Zealand snatches world record from France with largest Haka performance
Thousands of people in Auckland successfully reclaimed the world record for the largest Haka performance from France during a spectacular event at Eden Park on Saturday.
The Haka, a traditional Maori ceremonial dance, features vigorous movements, foot stomping, and rhythmic chanting. It has significant cultural importance and is often performed by tribes for various social functions, including welcoming distinguished guests and celebrating notable achievements.
Footage captured the excitement as participants engaged in the traditional Maori dance, with some leading the crowd from the stage and others practising various Maori ceremonies ahead of the record-breaking performance.
"Just to be part of history, to get the title back from France to New Zealand, I think it's just an amazing thing," participant Ngaire said.
She added that it not just highlights Maori culture but 'brings everyone together', saying "it's so great to see Maori and non-Maori, it's awesome."
Rawiri, a Maori participant, agreed, saying that "it's just part of my culture and who we are and being a part of something bigger for Aotearoa [New Zealand]."
"Once in a lifetime opportunity, hopefully, and so that we can do it next to our younger generation," another participant said. "Leave something for the next generation to pursue."
The previous record was held by 4,028 people from France in 2014. New Zealand broke this record with an impressive 6,531 participants at Eden Park, performing the Haka Ka Mate, composed by Te Rauparaha, chief of Ngati Toa Rangatira.
Guinness World Records adjudicator Brian Sobel confirmed the official count of 6,531, pending a review, according to media reports.
Thousands of people in Auckland successfully reclaimed the world record for the largest Haka performance from France during a spectacular event at Eden Park on Saturday.
The Haka, a traditional Maori ceremonial dance, features vigorous movements, foot stomping, and rhythmic chanting. It has significant cultural importance and is often performed by tribes for various social functions, including welcoming distinguished guests and celebrating notable achievements.
Footage captured the excitement as participants engaged in the traditional Maori dance, with some leading the crowd from the stage and others practising various Maori ceremonies ahead of the record-breaking performance.
"Just to be part of history, to get the title back from France to New Zealand, I think it's just an amazing thing," participant Ngaire said.
She added that it not just highlights Maori culture but 'brings everyone together', saying "it's so great to see Maori and non-Maori, it's awesome."
Rawiri, a Maori participant, agreed, saying that "it's just part of my culture and who we are and being a part of something bigger for Aotearoa [New Zealand]."
"Once in a lifetime opportunity, hopefully, and so that we can do it next to our younger generation," another participant said. "Leave something for the next generation to pursue."
The previous record was held by 4,028 people from France in 2014. New Zealand broke this record with an impressive 6,531 participants at Eden Park, performing the Haka Ka Mate, composed by Te Rauparaha, chief of Ngati Toa Rangatira.
Guinness World Records adjudicator Brian Sobel confirmed the official count of 6,531, pending a review, according to media reports.