The haka is performed at many Māori cultural events during New Zealand’s Waitangi Day commemorations.
A haka is a group performance involving chant, movement, facial expressions, and rhythmic actions. Although it is internationally associated with New Zealand’s national rugby team, haka are not limited to sport. Different haka have different purposes, including welcoming guests, expressing unity, honoring people, and marking important occasions.
Waitangi Day is observed on 6 February. It commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 between representatives of the British Crown and many Māori chiefs. The day is held at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands and elsewhere across New Zealand, with speeches, ceremonies, cultural performances, and public discussion.
“Haka” is a broad term rather than the name of one single dance. The famous “Ka Mate” haka is one particular composition, traditionally attributed to the Māori chief Te Rauparaha. Therefore, Ka Mate is not the general answer when a question asks for the Māori performance itself.