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Kapa Haka literally means to form a line (kapa) and dance (haka).

 

Pukana means to stare wildly or dilate the eyes to emphasize certain words or meanings to add excitement to the performance.

 

Poi is the Māori word for a "ball" on a cord. Many years ago the Māori people of New Zealand used it to increase their flexibility and strength in their hands and improve co-ordination. Each performer twirls one of more poi in perfect unison with the others. Sudden changes in direction are achieved by striking the ball on a hand or other part of the body. Poi dancers are normally women.

 

Haka are war dances with loud chanting, strong hand movements, foot stamping and thigh-slapping. Performers may incorporate traditional weapons such as taiaha (spear like weapons and patu (clubs) into their haka. The All Blacks are famous for their haka before each international rugby game.

 

Waiata are songs, hymns or lullabies which are an integral part of expressing who the dancers are and what they are about. They convey a particular message.

 

Wiri are symbolic hand movements where the performers flutter their hands quickly which can symbolise shimmering waters, heat waves or even a breeze moving the leaves of a tree.

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