Kiwi students perform Maori dance 'Haka' to support China(1/4)

Students holding placards conveying support to China in fighting the novel coronavirus epidemic pose for a group photo at Scots College in Wellington, New Zealand on Feb. 12, 2020. (Xinhua/Guo Lei)

In New Zealand's capital Wellington, students from the Scots College on Wednesday perform the New Zealand Maori ceremonial dance "Haka" to support China in fighting the novel coronavirus epidemic.

Haka is a type of ancient Maori war dance traditionally performed by men before going to war. Performers use many body motions and facial expressions which may include bulging eyes, sticking out of the tongue, stomping feet, and slapping the body with their hands. The aggressive facial expressions were meant to scare the opponents. Today, Haka are performed to welcome distinguished guests and show the importance of the occasion.

Students perform the New Zealand Maori ceremonial dance "Haka" to support China in fighting the novel coronavirus epidemic at Scots College in Wellington, New Zealand on Feb. 12, 2020. (Xinhua/Guo Lei)

Students perform the New Zealand Maori ceremonial dance "Haka" to support China in fighting the novel coronavirus epidemic at Scots College in Wellington, New Zealand on Feb. 12, 2020. (Xinhua/Guo Lei)

Students hold placards conveying support to China in fighting the novel coronavirus epidemic at Scots College in Wellington, New Zealand on Feb. 12, 2020. (Xinhua/Guo Lei)