Speechless.
This incredible haka was performed at the wedding of Benjamin and Aaliyah Armstrong in Auckland, New Zealand, reported the New Zealand Herald. It was posted by a Polanesian community page called Proud to Be Tongan, and has been shared over 130,000 times.
In the beginning, the bride and groom watch on while their friends and family perform the ceremonial dance. They are both visibly moved, and Aaliyah is overcome by tears early on.
The love, power and cultural pride is palpable. It all becomes overwhelming for the groom, who removes his blazer to take part.
Aaliyah and her bridesmaids also join in, and their strength and beauty is jaw-dropping.
The haka reaches its goose-bump inducing crescendo. And it’s over.
After it is finished, the bride and groom embrace their guests, hugging and sharing ‘hongi’ (touching noses).
Absolutely stunning.
Congratulations to Benjamin and Aaliyah.
Top Comments
I'm Polynesian and I didn't get goose bumps or warm fuzzy feelings. I was a little embarrassed to be honest. White people probably going...here goes the heathens again. Ladies and gentlemen, days of cannibalism and internal warfare are behind us now. How about we we throw a shrimp on the barbie and sing Kumbaya now 😋
That was awesome! Like Rush said, the Haka is a war dance, but in a celebratory situation it is used to show pride, strength and unity and what better place to show unity than a wedding! I've seen many Haka's performed in my time growing up in New Zealand and they never lose their intensity, whatever the situation.