All Blacks show how rituals boost sporting mojo

'It is death! It is death!' New Zealand's haka adds to the spectacle

GettyImages-835475532.jpg

The New Zealand All Blacks perform the haka -- a Maori ceremonial war dance -- before a Bledisloe Cup match against the Australian Wallabies in 2017 in Sydney. © Getty Images

GEOFF HISCOCK

This is the moment. The national anthems have been sung and the packed stadium in Wellington buzzes with anticipation as two national rugby union teams face off. On one side, the mighty New Zealand All Blacks; on the other, the Australian Wallabies.

It is time for the haka, the ceremonial Maori war dance that is an integral part of New Zealand culture. The atmosphere is electric, exhilarating and intimidating.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored ContentThis content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.