Haka then and now: it used to be more funny than frightening

Archive video shows that the Haka has changed a lot in 40 years. See how the 1973 war cry measures up

Haka dance
(Image credit: YouTube)

The Haka, a traditional ancestral war cry practised by Maoris before battle – and now by the All Blacks before rugby internationals – has become one of sport's most theatrical moments.

But the rugby players' version of the dance wasn't always as intimidating as it is today.

The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE
https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/flexiimages/jacafc5zvs1692883516.jpg

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Sign up
Latest Videos FromThe Week