why did the All Blacks’ haka before the match against Italy spark a heated controversy in New Zealand?

The haka performed by the All Blacks before the match against Italy last weekend in Rome sparked a heated controversy in New Zealand.

A message that is far from unanimous. A week after their defeat against the XV of France (30-29), the All Blacks were traveling to Rome last weekend to face Italy (11-29 victory). And as before every meeting, they performed their famous haka, which was led by TJ Perenara. But before singing “Ka Mate”, the scrum half took the opportunity to send a message. “Pay homage to the Treaty of Waitangi,” he said.

He was able to count on the support of his captain

These few words sparked a heated controversy in New Zealand. Because they refer to the text signed between the Maoris and the British settlers in 1840, which is considered a founding act of the New Zealand nation. But it is regularly subject to numerous interpretations and also controversies in the land of the long white cloud. It has notably been questioned by the liberal party ACT New Zealand, which recently tabled a bill to modify it.

And TJ Perenara’s position was poorly received by part of the population of New Zealand, believing that athletes should not take a position on political issues. “Although the haka is a cultural expression, it is not about showing prejudice or political opinions,” wrote an editorial writer for New Zealand Haland.

Despite the controversy, he was able to count on the support of his captain Scott Barrett. “As a leader, he has the opportunity to say something, to deliver a message of unity. And that’s what he did,” said the second row, united behind TJ Perenara.