We believe Māori cultural roots offer a rich source of wisdom that can benefit both athletes and coaches, providing access to traditional practices such as whakawhanaungatanga and Tūrangawaewae.
Incorporating Māori knowledge into their teams can foster a greater sense of unity and purpose, harnessing the collective strength and resilience of their athletes. Sports teams can establish deeper connections with the communities they represent, generating higher levels of support and engagement.
In 2019, our organisation joined the North Harbour Rugby environment with a clear vision: to create a culture where players felt a deep sense of belonging and connection. Recognising the power of Te Ao Māori as a pillar of unity, we sought to embed these values within the team.
Before our involvement, North Harbour Rugby had a strong foundation but lacked a structured approach to fostering a deep sense of connection and belonging. With players from diverse backgrounds, it was essential to create an environment where every individual felt valued, supported, and motivated to contribute to the team's collective success. This vision became the driving force behind shaping our haka.
Our approach was rooted in our passion for Te Ao Māori and its principles. We focused on:
Through this work, North Harbour Rugby experienced a significant cultural shift. Players reported feeling more connected, and the haka along with its underlying practices became an integral part of the men's team identity. Today, these values are woven into the very fabric of everything they do, fostering a culture of unity, pride, and belonging.
