2nd 1st Farewell Their Fallen Comrades With A Huge Haka

Haka is used throughout New Zealand by many, not only Māori, to demonstrate their collective thoughts. There is a haka for each of the Services, as well as the Defence Force. Units with the NZ Army have their own haka. This video shows the soldiers of 2/1 RNZIR Battalion performing their Unit haka, powerfully acknowledging the lives and feats of their fallen comrades as they come onto the Unit's parade ground. It is also an emotive farewell for they will leave via the waharoa (the carved entrance way) for the very last time.

Haka --sometimes termed a posture dance could also be described as a chant with actions. There are various forms of haka; some with weapons some without, some have set actions others may be 'free style.' Haka is used by Māori (indigenous people of New Zealand) for a myriad of reasons; to challenge or express defiance or contempt, to demonstrate approval or appreciation, to encourage or to discourage, to acknowledge feats and achievements, to welcome, to farewell, as an expression of pride, happiness or sorrow. There is almost no inappropriate occasion for haka; it is an outward display of inner thoughts and emotions. Within the context of an occasion it is abundantly clear which emotion is being expressed.

[CRAZYHORSE]

What a way to send a comrade on to the loud warrior the heavens on warrior is about to arrive!

[Heegaherger]

As a former US marine all I can say is: may this tradition never die. Warriors must be remembered

[colwilliamnoydb]

Having spent over 20 years in the Marines, as both enlisted and as an Officer, and as a warrior for the Kiowa Tribe in Oklahoma, this is the way I want to go out.  Putting the heavens on notice that a warrior is coming into their space.

[solokom]

As a German, I can only appreciate how New Zealand incorporated Maori heritage into their state institutions and culture. As a human being, I am just touched by how they honour a fallen comrade.

[bumbleandprincess]

Hi everyone,

A lot of people have commented about the man standing at 1:31 into the video.
He is a Kaumatua (Respected Tribal Elder).You will also note that he has a walking stick in his right hand.
As an elder he is there to 'Oversee' this Haka and ensure that due respect is paid.
He is an expert in Maori Protocol and much respected by all of the tribes.

This Haka is not only for the Deceased person .... it is to pay respect to his Whanau (Family), his IWI (Tribe) and probably most importantly, his ancestors who now take him into their care.

Great to see all of the wonderful in our country (New Zealand) everyone ...weather they be Maori, European, Asian, American etc is encouraged to learn / respect these traditions.
The Government also encourages these traditions as Maori is an Official Language of NZ.

Much Aroha (Love) to everyone.

Big Jim xxx

[elviscalzone]

When they go silent, that's when it really hits you.

[bumbleandprincess]

TO EVERYONE, who has replied or even just appreciated this video (love and respect) to you all!!
So many of you have commented on the culture, love and respect that Maori show towards those who pass away, their families and ancestors. For us, that is so heart warming and blessings to you all.

BUT also important that everyone this is just OUR WAY of celebrating, grieving, understanding and respecting those who pass away.
Everyone and every culture is different and we respect that is not about the is about what is important to respecting your loved ones.
Weather you choose to grieve in silence, abide by cultural practices or just have a simple family get together is NO right or wrong.

Please understand, those who have just passed and, those who went before, will appreciate & respect you for the Intent you had as much as the way you carried it.
out.
Wishing you and your Whanau (FAMILY & FRIENDS) happiness, love and prosperity in 2021.

From all of New Zealand (with special love from our Maori brothers and Sisters)

Big Jim - Ngati Whatua Tribe

[aabenson]

I'm a Native of the Cree Tribe of the Plains people. Respect from Montana to my indigenous brothers across the pond! Aho!

[Raymondish]

I am an American Soldier that spent time with crib 21 in Bamyan, Afghanistan. They showed me nothing but respect. I also gained so much respect for their Army and Soldiers. May these fallen warriors rest in peace. May god bless my New Zealand brothers and sisters in arms.

[TJLSUDAD]

There are no words to describe this - and I'm from New Orleans where we make funerals an event. This is the most powerful show of respect and love I have ever witnessed. Thank you for exposing me to this beautiful culture.

[samhunt]

Was proud to be a member of the New Zealand Army back in the 1960's. We ALWAYS punched way above our weight and we ALWAYS R.I.P.

[flanny]

United States Navy veteran here. This tribute had me crying my eyes out. Until Valhalla, Brother... Rest in peace.

[blackasylum]

I'm from Australia but this still gives me chills. ANZAC brothers always.

[barryleach]

I am a veteran of Viet Nam...and I'm crying like fking schoolgirl. God you New Zealanders have so much to love about you....I wish my fking nation had the unity and love and spirit of you...I pray..long after all the great idiotic powers of the world have destroyed one another...I pray New Zealand rises and teaches the world how to live in harmony.

[Shooter]

This video is 8 years old now and still gives me the chills every time that I see it. Love and respect from the U.S.A.🇺🇸

[jimwyatt]

I am an old combat vet and this culture is so far from mine but the ultimate respect brings tears to my eyes. Thank you warriors.

[ritabrown]

When I'm in a deep depression I turn to the Haka performances. I will cry. I am uplifted by the oneness of those performing the Haka for the fallen.

[janhammekenbuch]

My two cents... The white people who arrived at New Zealand have integrated themselves and adapted the ways of the Maori. The Haka performed by all, strengthens the mutual bond they share, not only as New Zealanders, but as fellow soldiers.
Greetings from Denmark. Stay strong and proud!

[Leviticus]

I was in the Australian Army for just under 10 years, we had the kiwis come over for a rugby tournament, they then performed a haka afterwards. It was to this day one of the highlights of my career. It was a show of strength, respect and passion delivered through a cultural performance that silenced every soldier in the crowd. The word Mateship in the Australian Army is one of our core values and that single word gets you up every morning and over the line when things get tough during your service.
But the kiwis didn't have mateship, they had a brotherhood and it was beyond anything id seen before. Thankyou for sharing this video it brought back some amazing memories throwing beers back with the Kiwi lads

[Fretfire]

“Can’t you see that we honor you, and even though our hearts are broken at your passing, you are worthy of our utmost respect. It is only fitting that we perform a Haka to honor you, as a warrior, a brother, and a lifelong friend. We shall remember you forever.”

The part that really gets to me, is the Soldier, in the beret kneeling at the front of the hearse. I wish I knew who this warrior was. His mates obviously held him in high regard. This never fails to hit me hard. These are extraordinary men, and I would be reluctant to face ANY of them on the battlefield.