(ANSA) - WELLINGTON, NOV 15 - The Maori tribe that owns the rights to the 'Ka Mate' haka told no-vax protesters today to stop performing the famous ritual during demonstrations.
Ngati Toa, a tribe or iwi in Maori, is recognized by New Zealand law as the cultural custodian of Ka Mate, which has played a leading role in recent protests against coronavirus-related restrictions. "Ngati Toa condemns the use of haka Ka Mate to promote anti-Covid-19 vaccination messages," said the tribe in a statement just outside Wellington. "We insist that protesters immediately stop using our taonga (cultural treasure)."
Maori haka comes in many forms, but Ka Mate, which has been performed by the All Blacks prior to rugby matches for more than a century, is by far the best known.
The foot flapping and eye rolling ritual is firmly rooted in New Zealand culture and is often used at significant social events such as weddings or funerals.
The Parliament passed a law in 2014 that recognizes NgatiToa as the keeper of the haka, although the legislation does not provide for penalties for abuse.
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