The haka is a ceremonial Māori war dance or challenge. Haka are usually performed in a group and represent a display of a tribe's pride, strength and unity.

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Actions include the stomping of the foot, the protrusion of the tongue and rhythmic body slapping to accompany a loud chant. The words of a haka often poetically describe ancestors and events in the tribe's history.

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Traditionally, the haka was performed when two parties met as part of the customs around encounters. 

For example, the haka was used on the battlefield to prepare warriors mentally and physically for battle, but it was also performed when groups came together in peace. 

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Today, haka are still used during ceremonies and celebrations to honour guests and show the importance of the occasion. This includes family events, like birthdays, graduations, weddings and funerals.

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The Mayfair School Haka - Te Oki, was composed and gifted to the school in 2018 by the schools 14th principal, Ricardo Fox. The composing of the Haka took place on the Amtrak Cascade train between Seattle and Portland. Mr Fox was inspired majestic trees of America's Pacific Northwest and how nature and the schools oak tree are central to life, identity and strength.

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