Are you ready to Haka on Sunday? Here’s what you need to know
Thursday, 26 September 2024
When: If breaking a world record is on your bucket list, Sunday, September 29, 2024 is your day.
Where: Eden Park, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.
What: Haka! Join thousands of others on the pitch to perform Ka Mate and reclaim the Guinness World Record title from France.
Why: To raise funds for the Raukatauri Music Therapy Centre and for Kiwi pride.
On Sunday, thousands of people will flock to Eden Park in Auckland to take back the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest ever haka.
Despite multiple attempts over the years by Kiwis to bring the haka world record home, the official world record has been held by France since 2014 when 4028 people took part.
The event aims to draw 10,000 people to Eden Park on September 29 and will raise funds for the Raukatauri Music Therapy Centre.
Here’s everything you need to know about Haka.
Haka - what’s it all about?
“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,” says Dame Hinewehi Mohi, the force behind Haka.
The musician, producer and te reo Māori advocate is the cultural ambassador for the event, and co-founder of Raukatari Music Therapy Centre.
“Haka is a unique symbol of Aotearoa, it is undeniably ours and it is recognised and revered around the world,” Mohi said.
“Yet the official Guinness World Record title for the world’s largest haka is currently held by 4028 men and women, performed 10 years ago in France.”
She said the occasion will be a powerful statement of national pride, cultural heritage and unity.
The attempt will be officially adjudicated by Guinness World Records. Participants will perform the haka Ka Mate, which is often performed by the All Blacks before a rugby game.
“This momentous event will showcase our rich cultural heritage to the world and reinforce the deep connection we all share,” Mohi said.
How do I get involved?
Tickets can be purchased at $10 per adult and $5 for concessions at www.hakarecord.co.nz
The cost of the ticket will raise funds to help the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust deliver life-changing music therapy to those who need it most.
With an increase in the cost of living, and a decrease in funding, the trust says it is facing a reduction of services, and is hoping its biggest fundraiser yet, will help the organisation continue to provide accessible music therapy services.
The trust’s team of registered music therapists deliver services to around 1000 clients per week, ranging in age from infants to those in their 90s.
These clients have a range of needs, including cerebral palsy, autism spectrum, developmental disabilities, genetic conditions such as Down syndrome, acquired brain injuries, mental health challenges, dementia, and complex trauma.
“One of Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust's fundamental values is we never want finances to be a barrier to accessing music therapy,” Rachel Farrell, the trust’s general manager said.
Did someone say entertainment?
As well as the thrill of being part of the world’s largest haka, your ticket’s also an invitation to celebrate Aotearoa talent with an incredible lineup of Kiwi acts set to perform.
Six60 announced on Sunday that they will fly back to New Zealand for Haka. They have been touring in Europe, and have some gigs in Australia as well, before arriving back here.
They will join Alien Weaponry, Anika Moa, Che Fu, Corrella, Georgia Lines, Hollie Smith, Kings, Majic, Paige, PERE, Ria Hall, Rob Ruha, Shepherds Reign, Tami Neilson and the Topp Twins for what’s sure to be a show to remember.
Event day timings:
The gates open at 4.30pm on Sunday and all participants are encouraged to arrive at Eden Park by 5pm.
Registrations close at 5.30pm. All participants must be on-site and registered by this time to be eligible for the official world record attempt. Those not registered by then, will not be able to participate in the official world record attempt.
Rehearsals start promptly at 5.30pm. This is the final chance to practise together before the big moment.
Those participating are advised to learn the actions and words – Ka Mate needs to be performed properly for it to count. Video tutorials for the male and female versions of the haka can be found online.
How do I get there?
While there is no parking available on site at Eden Park, the stadium is centrally located and adjacent to key transport hubs including train stations and major bus routes.
Bus travel in Auckland is included in the ticket, including rail replacement buses, and is valid from 2.30pm. Simply show the ticket to the driver when boarding, and remember to keep the ticket for the journey home.
Trains will not be running on the day, due to scheduled maintenance, however rail replacement buses will be available from all stations.
Ferry passengers heading to Haka on Sunday can catch a rail replacement bus or regular scheduled bus to get to Eden Park from the Britomart Transport Centre.
Road closures will be in place during the event, from 3.30pm to 9.30pm, affecting, Walters Rd between Sandringham Rd and Cricket Ave.
A police spokesperson said staff would be in the area monitoring traffic movement.
“Police encourage people to take public transport where possible, to avoid traffic congestion in the immediate area.”
CORRECTION: Auckland Transport has advised there will be no special event buses from 120 Quay St near the Downtown Ferry Terminal, contrary to the original listing on its website and apologises for the error. (Amended: September 26, 9.39am.)