England v New Zealand: Why do All Blacks perform the haka?

England face New Zealand at Twickenham this weekend and fans inside the ground will have the opportunity to witness their famous haka.

Haka are traditional ceremonial dances that originate from native Maori culture in New Zealand.

Both the men’s All Blacks and women’s Black Ferns New Zealand rugby teams perform their own unique hakas.

These group performances incorporate chanting, stomping and facial expressions.

Traditionally, haka was a way to welcome and entertain visiting tribes, but it also served to prepare warriors before heading into battle.

It is also used to acknowledge achievements and to mark occasions or funerals.

The haka is also famously performed in sporting events to challenge the opposition before a match.

It sets out to prepare teams mentally, physically and spiritually while honouring and showing respect to the Maori culture.

It was first introduced in sport when the New Zealand Native rugby team toured the United Kingdom in 1888.

The haka soon became synonymous with New Zealand rugby and was incorporated as part of the All Blacks pre-game routine.

All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson said “it is part of who we are, it’s our DNA.”

“It is not just about the All Blacks, it is about us as a country. It means a lot to us,” he added.