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National Secondary Schools Kapa Haka
WILLIE JACKSON
When I see a school like Kings College performing at the National Secondary Schools Kapa Haka compeition, it gives me a good feeling because to me, that shows our Maori culture is now the norm, not the exception.
It’s the same when I attend a First XV schoolboy clash. The challenge of opposing school’s haka – where the rugby team is backed up by their collegues – is spine tingling. Watching Kings College take on Auckland Grammar is quite a pre-match experience. I get the same feeling when the All Blacks or Kiwis perform the haka.
I mention Kings College because my son attended the decile 10 Auckland school a few years ago I didn’t send him there because I could afford to – far from it – but he went there to obtain the type of education and contacts our kids need in the world today.
Anyway Kings were exceptional, as were all the Kura on display.
Kapa haka is alive and well and to see groups modernising traditional song and dance, adds a new dimension to performances. I overheard the live streaming of the event within the office, during that time, I heard a pop song melody that had been interpreted to Maori which was very cool.
That type of thing happens all the time now, composers are regularly interpreting contemporary songs into their presentations. As well groups will sing about issues of the day, politics, really anything of any interest in todays society is presented on the stage.
Groups also like to challenge some of our traditionalists, the Hato Paora boys from Palmeston North caused an uproar earlier this year with their use of the poi. Some veterans and experts of haka were horrified by what the boys did and they very nearly didnt get their opportunity to perform at the nationals, but thankfully common sense prevailed and the boys got their chance. They performed well, didnt make the finals but had a bit of fun with a cheeky dig at the judges and their critics.
But back to Kings
They won entry for the first time to the kapa haka nationals after finishing 4th at last year’s ASB Polyfest. That is a mean feat when you consider who they are up against in Tamaki Makaurau.
And from media reports of their performance, they were outstanding. That was confirmed when they received a standing ovation from the crowd, who also performed a haka back to the school.
That’s a wonderful mark of respect for Kings College and I’m sure it’s a moment in time the young males who stood on the stage carrying the Kings College mana, will never forget.
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