Thousands of Kiwis and tourists are set to flock to Eden Park this afternoon in a bid to set a new record for the world’s largest haka - a record held by the French since 2014.
New Zealand haka organisers are hoping at least 10,000 participants will turn up for the attempt, which will be officially adjudicated by Guinness World Records.
“Haka is more than just an event,” said Dame Hinewehi Mohi, DNZM (Ngāti Kahungunu/Ngāi Tūhoe), cultural ambassador for HAKA and co-founder of the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust.
“It is a powerful statement of national pride, cultural heritage, unity and a landmark occasion to create a new world record and reclaim the title from the current holders, the French.
“Haka is a unique symbol of Aotearoa, it is undeniably ours and it is recognised and revered around the world. Yet the official Guinness World Records title for the world’s largest haka is held by 4028 men and women, performed 10 years ago in France.”
One Auckland resident said they were “pretty excited” about participating in the world record attempt as they filtered into Eden Park around 6pm today.
“Especially to be a part of history in a way and I’m also glad that they’re embracing Māori culture because that’s really important,” they said.
“It’s also a way to make our Sunday a bit different.”
Another participant said they were feeling “very nervous but elated” ahead of the attempt:
“We just wanted to be part of history. It might never happen again.”
They said they had been practicing all week.
“This is about more than just setting the record straight. It is about returning the mana of this world record to the land of its origins, and we will be doing it alongside some of Aotearoa’s most celebrated musicians, sporting icons and kapa haka legends,” Mohi said.
The record attempt is supported by former All Black captain Wayne “Buck” Shelford, who is credited with reviving Ka Mate, when the decision was made to perform it at home in time for the first Rugby World Cup in 1987.
“As I stand on the field at Eden Park to reclaim a Guinness World Records title for the largest haka, I know I will be reminded of the pride I felt on the same grounds at the 1987 Rugby World Cup final against France. Just as I led a haka then, and the team won 29-9 against the French all those years ago, I know we will lead Aotearoa to bring a Guinness World Records title back home where it belongs,” said Shelford.
The “nation-building occasion” is part of the 20th anniversary celebrations of the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust, co-founded by Dame Hinewehi and named after her daughter Hineraukatauri. Funds raised will enable the trust to continue delivering life-changing music therapy.