Iconic Haka Performed on Principality Stadium Roof Ahead of Autumn Nations Championship

An iconic Māori haka, Ka Mate was performed on the roof of Principality Stadium as part of a unique activation celebrating the deep rugby connections between Wales and New Zealand ahead of the Nations Championship this autumn.

Seven performers with New Zealand and Welsh connections delivered the world-famous haka, at a height of 35 meters above the stadium pitch, waking up Cardiff and creating a powerful visual tribute to one of rugby's greatest rivalries and friendships.

The activation draws on the rich shared history between Wales and the All Blacks. When New Zealand toured Wales in 1905, the Welsh players, led by winger Teddy Morgan supported by the crowd, famously answered the haka with song, singing the Welsh national anthem at a Test match for the first time. The moment helped establish the tradition of national anthems before sporting fixtures, now heard around the world.

The activation has been supported by David Jones, Chief Executive of Haka International, a proud Māori leader with Welsh heritage, who has served as cultural advisor to ensure the haka is delivered with authenticity, respect and integrity.

"We're here on hallowed ground", said Jones.  "I have ancestry of both, Welsh and New Zealand. Thinking about 1905, when the haka was done here and the response was the Welsh National Anthem, you've got two great cultures meeting.  

"For me, the cultural element is the part that connects into the people of the land; and, being over this side of the world and now living in the UK, rugby is a vehicle by which we can connect back to home.

"Today we performed Ka Mate, which was the haka performed in 1905. It was history in the making, and how humbling and what an honor it is to perform that haka again, in this space."

Wales face the All Blacks on Saturday 14th November.  Tickets for all Autumn Nations Championship games are on sale now from only £13.50 U18s and £26 Adults via wru.wales/tickets