Te Matatini proudly supported HAKA - Stand as a Nation, held on Sunday 29 September at Eden Park, Auckland.
There was a call to the nation to attempt the Guinness World Record title for the largest haka, because France held the title with 4,028 individuals.
6,531 kiwis proudly gathered to perform the haka 'Ka Mate', composed by Ngāti Toa Rangatira chief Te Rauparaha. We did it! Ka mau te wehi!
The goal was to return the mana of haka back to Aotearoa where it lives and breathes, but so much more was achieved.
"I was so proud of how haka brought our nation together," says Carl Ross, Te Matatini Manahautū.
"Participating in kapa haka promotes physical and mental well-being, and fosters a sense of identity, improves fitness, creates social connections and enhances mental health and emotional resilience."
Chair Tā Herewini Parata and Carl hosted Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, Hon Paul Goldsmith, and Minister for Māori Development, Hon Tama Potaka, and other guests at Haka Stand.
"Kapa haka contributes to the national identity and unity of Aotearoa," says Tā Herewini. "Performing together fosters unity, strengthens whānau and community connections, provides a strong sense of belonging, and instils national pride among all New Zealanders."
Photo L to R: Marama Royal(Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust Chair), Hon Tama Potaka, (Min for Māori Development - standing), Hon Paul Goldsmith (Min for Arts, Culture and Heritage), Carl Ross (Te Matatini Chief Executive - standing), Tā Herewini Parata (Te Matatini National Board Chair).