kapa haka

/ ˈkɑːpə ˈhɑːkə /

noun

1. the traditional Māori performing arts, often performed competitively

Word History and Origins

Origin of kapa haka¹

Māori, literally: traditional dance performed by groups in a line

Example Sentences

Lee’s training spanned 2 1/2 months of daily multi-hour workouts as well as time spent working with a Kapa Haka master.

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The kapa haka is a performance of various choral song and dances, many of which have complicated moves and require good coordination.

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"Older Maori have substantial roles involving advanced cognitive activities and, along with kapa haka, cultural activities may provide greater cognitive stimulation and thus preservation of cognition," the study said.

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Researchers at the university of Auckland in New Zealand are wondering if performing the kapa haka is one of the things that helps stave off dementia in older Maoris.

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