Century-Old Tradition To Go On

The All Blacks may continue to perform the haka at international matches after coming to an agreement with the tribe that created it, Ngati Toa Rangatira. There had been fears their chanting days were over after descendents of the Maori tribe that created the specific dance the team uses — the Ka Mate Haka, or “Tis Death” — demanded control of its use by applying to legally trademark four key phrases of Ka Mate. “We have been privileged to be able to perform Ka Mate with the blessing of Ngati Toa Rangatira, but it is great to give that understanding some status, to recognise the significance of Ka Mate and the special relationship we share with Ngati Toa,” New Zealand Rugby Union chief executive Steve Tew said.