Highlanders stirring pre-match Haka

The Highlanders set the tone for the Super Rugby Trans-Tasman final against the Blues with their haka Hautoa Kia Toa.

CREDIT: Sky Sport NZ

[nrhs]

after the match Himeno told the interviewer he was more nervous about haka than the game. He said he practiced it with the team, learnt the meanings of haka and practiced it by himself also.. he was so honoured and I felt it too! To be able to play rugby in nz and on top to be able to perform haka along with some top rugby players in the world.. priceless! I’m a Japanese living in nz and I felt so proud watching him!

[rapid]

Must've been crazy experience for Himeno 😂

[chptLiva]

Awesome to see the Japanese player performing the Highlanders haka. 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[browniekomene]

Just a sacred moment to have the blood of the samurai in this Haka. Also to feel and hear the mana of the Deep South.

[magnumpi]

Hard luck Highlanders. Congratulations Auckland Blues👏💙

[dododo]

I’m really proud of Himeno having performed haka!!

[nikorairimana]

Beautiful, how auspicious was this. Great good on u guys representing.

[keithallardice]

Holy s--t! Challenge laid down and accepted!! Wow...!

[Huimatewaka]

Thank you boys unity of cultures achieved .

[paulveenings]

If that doesn’t get the blood pumping nothing will .

[jimhenderson]

Mean hope to do that haka one day houta Kia toa

[thatkid.C]

North island congrats to the blues well deserved also otago for keeping the crusaders out lol

[skeme]

Ewwsshh Himeno getting stuck right in..💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽

[aaronrowe]

I'm a hurricanes fan but the blues the north has claimed it

[bboy-kvpd]

Blues should’ve responded with their haka..

[Zyzzdeuch]

Man next week's final against the Crusasa...oh wait that's right

[chrisboon]

Line umpires get involved in this game too

[pauldean]

Not only a great haka but in my opinion the best haka leader in nz history..including all blacks

[MaihiBarber]

Yep you almost got the W - Hautoa azz!

[eamonnglover]

Why do nz rugby grounds look half empty?