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Music genre

Kapa haka

Kapa haka is a music genre that emerged in New Zealand. It is usually classed as a form of folk dance. Explore key artists and related styles.

About Kapa haka

Kapa haka is a music genre that emerged in New Zealand. It is usually classed as a form of folk dance.

From Wikipedia

Kapa haka is the term for Māori action songs and the groups who perform them. The phrase translates to 'group' (kapa) 'dance' (haka). Kapa haka is an important avenue for Māori people to express and showcase their heritage and cultural Polynesian identity through song and dance.

Modern kapa haka traces back to pre-European times where it developed from traditional forms of Māori performing art; haka, mau rākau (weaponry), poi (ball attached to rope or string) and mōteatea (traditional Māori songs). There is a regular national kapa haka competition currently called Te Matatini that has been running since 1972.

Genre family tree

Parent genres (↑) and subgenres (↓) of Kapa haka.

  • ↑ folk dance

Frequently asked questions

What is Kapa haka?

Kapa haka is a music genre that emerged in New Zealand. It is usually classed as a form of folk dance.

Where and when did Kapa haka originate?

Kapa haka originated in New Zealand.

Sources & credits