Time for ‘aggressive’ haka to get the heaveho
IT is time the haka was banned, if not entirely, then as a freeforall.
This letter is prompted by what must be the ugliest, most aggressive haka, namely that which preceded the Rugby World Cup match between the All Blacks and Springboks.
New Zealand has an appalling history of violence by men towards women. The haka is about challenge and aggression: angry faces, hostile stances and threatening movements.
Given the high regard in which the All Blacks are held, this aggression then gains status and emulation. It is alarming to note that haka is now being taught at preschool level and indulged in at any opportunity.
Unfortunately, teams opposing the All Blacks are unable to respond to the ‘‘challenge’’ in any way. Imagine if the opposing team wandered off laughing and smiling midhaka. Just think how disempowering that would be for our ‘‘warriors’’.
The haka is an appropriation of Maori culture. It needs to be returned to Maori and reassessed as to its role in the 21st century. Juliet Clark Central Otago
Live stock export
THE Government considers itself a coalition of good judgement and compassion.
But what about, like National, the Green Party’s ecological preference for poison over natural attrition and predation?
And New Zealand First’s promotion of that particularly callous trading practice — we’ve all seen the repeating images — of live cattle and sheep exportation?
R. Hogan Waikouaiti ..................................
BIBLE READING: The unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God. — 1 Corinthians 6.9.