Aotearoa has reclaimed the Guinness World Record for the largest haka from France after thousands performed Ka Mate at Auckland’s Eden Park on Sunday.
The previous official record was 4028, held by France since 2014.
People travelled from far and wide to support the kaupapa, with American TV host Conan O’Brien, director Taika Waititi and boxer David Tua spotted in the crowd.
Gates opened at 4.30pm before the haka attempt itself just after 8pm. Local entertainment included Six60, Alien Weaponry, Che Fu, Rob Ruha and the Topp Twins.
The haka had to be performed for one minute, so those present performed Ka Mate four times in a row.
Also for context: Haka world record attempt: Aucklanders urged to get involved
In 2016, 6000 people attempted to break that record in Masterton and then in 2017, an estimated 7700 people in Rotorua showed up for a mass haka as the British and Irish Lions prepared to play the Māori All Blacks. Neither of those attempts were officially recognised.
Congratulations to everyone who took part. That’s amazing.
