Digitised haka goes down a treat with Ngati Toa

The faces of the New Zealand Rugby League team were superimposed over those of the Ngati Toa performers.

Maori have applauded the actions of a computer game manufacturer who sought Maori support for the use of the haka, Ka Mate, Ka Mate, in a new game.

Computer game maker Sidhe Interactive has included the haka, created by Ngati Toa chief Te Rauparaha and made famous by the All Blacks, in the X box version of the Rugby League 2 game.

But unlike the controversy that followed the use of the haka in an Italian television commercial for a new Fiat, ancestors of Te Rauparaha have applauded the haka's digital launch.

Sidhe Interactive managing director Mario Wynands said the company had negotiated with Ngati Kimihia, a sub-tribe of Ngati Toa, over the use of the haka.

"The key factor was to include something that enriched the game and the New Zealand cultural aspect of the game."

Money was not discussed in negotiations, just the proper use of the ancestral taonga.

Mr Wynands said the company offered a computer and work experience for a tribal member at its Wellington office, in gratitude to the tribe.

"This was offered off our own back, there was never any discussion about payment."

He said he hoped the process would set a precedent for other companies considering using aspects of Maori culture in their work.

"In some cases Maori groups are pigeon-holed as just being out to get money, or trying to reap commercial benefits through cultural exploitation. In this instance it was not the case. Ngati Toa were only interested in ensuring their culture was portrayed accurately and with respect."

The haka, by Ngati Toa performers, was digitally captured at Weta Digital Effects in Wellington.

The faces of New Zealand Rugby League players were then superimposed over the performers for the game, which includes vocals recorded during the performance.

Ngati Toa chairman Robert Solomon said he applauded the efforts of Sidhe and welcomed greater use of the tribe's famous haka.

"Some of our iwi may have a financial motive - but most do not. I say go for it, the haka is bigger than anyone criticising its use."

He said the priority was in ensuring Maori and tribal culture was respected.