what do they say in the haka

The haka is a ceremonial Māori war dance or challenge that is performed in a group and represents a display of a tribes pride, strength, and unity. The words of a haka often poetically describe ancestors and events in the tribes history. The All Blacks, New Zealands rugby team, perform the haka before each match in a stunning show of strength and physical prowess. The All Blacks use Ka Mate as their haka, which was composed in the 1820s by the rangatira (chief), Te Rauparaha. The words to this particular haka have become famous around the world since it became a part of the pregame ritual of the All Blacks. The haka does not have a direct translation, but it is a combination of words, actions, and facial expressions that convey a message. The haka is a powerful way for the All Blacks to honor Māori culture and acknowledge the land from which they come, Aotearoa, New Zealand.