Rugby fans rally to All Blacks' new call to arms

Aisake Nau, 2, wonders what all the fuss is about as Joe Rokocoko signs autographs after yesterday's training session. Picture / Dean Purcell

The All Blacks' new haka is a winner.

Fans who turned up to watch the team's public training session at Western Springs yesterday described the haka as "warrior-like" and the throat-cutting gesture at the finale as setting down a strong challenge to opponents.

International student Yuka Tomita watched Saturday's game at an inner-city bar and witnessed the reaction first-hand.

"The audience was very excited to see the new haka. People were shouting. Many people seemed to like it."

Luke Dixon, 11, was more of a traditionalist.

"I reckon the old one was better. I like the 'ka mate, ka mate' bit."

Retiree Jack Dempsey disagreed. "It was brilliant. It's a more traditional haka than the Ka mate.

Mr Dempsey said captain Tana Umaga "has done a beautiful job of it, too".

The choice of haka will be decided by the team on a match-by-match basis.

Fullback Leon McDonald said the haka for this Saturday's clash against the Wallabies would be decided later in the week.

"I think it's a great thing, and it's great the public enjoy it as well."