Story: Kapa Haka

Kapa haka, Waitangi Day 1947

Kapa haka, Waitangi Day 1947

This kapa haka group, unidentified but probably from Rotorua, is performing at Waitangi for Waitangi Day celebrations in 1947. Their alignment in strict rows is a distinctive feature of kapa haka and gives the art form its name. 

Using this item

Alexander Turnbull Library, Whites Aviation Collection
Reference: WA-06945-F

Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, National Library of New Zealand, Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Valance Smith, 'Kapa Haka - What is kapa haka?', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/43917/kapa-haka-waitangi-day-1947 (accessed 20 April 2024)

Story by Valance Smith, published 22 Oct 2014, reviewed & revised 9 Feb 2023