KAPA O PANGO ORIGINS

Kapa O Pango was created specifically for the All Blacks, first performed in 2005 ahead of a Tri Nations Test against South Africa at Carisbrook in Dunedin. It was introduced as a new haka to sit alongside Ka Mate, reflecting the team’s evolving identity. 

Composed by Derek Lardelli of Ngāti Porou, a leading authority in tikanga Māori, the haka was developed over the course of a year in close collaboration with the team. Its name translates to “team in black”, and its words and actions draw on the land of Aotearoa, the silver fern, and the unity of those who wear the jersey.

THE STORY OF KAPA O PANGO

While haka are often seen as a challenge, Kapa O Pango is ceremonial in nature. It speaks to inner strength, personal responsibility and the moment of stepping forward in the black jersey. It is a declaration of identity, a connection to whakapapa, and a commitment to represent the country with pride.

First performed under captain Tana Umaga, the haka quickly established itself as a powerful expression of the modern All Blacks. Its movements and delivery differ from Ka Mate, but it carries the same intensity, precision and unity.

KAPA O PANGO TODAY

Today, Kapa O Pango forms part of the All Blacks’ haka repertoire, performed at the team’s discretion. Alongside Ka Mate, it reflects both the legacy and evolution of the haka within the team, grounded in tradition while continuing to tell the story of the All Blacks in the present day.