The Epoch Times
The Epoch Times
AD
The Epoch Times
Support Us
Asia & Pacific

NZ Rugby Team to Apologise for Calling Conservative Government ‘Redneck’

The women’s team used a pre-match haka to criticise the government. Team management says it was not consulted, and the Poua will apologise.
NZ Rugby Team to Apologise for Calling Conservative Government ‘Redneck’
Grace Steinmetz of the Chiefs Manawa looks to fend off the tackled during the round one Super Rugby Aupiki match between Chiefs Manawa and Hurricanes Poua at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton, New Zealand on March 2, 2024. Michael Bradley/Getty Images
Rex Widerstrom
Rex Widerstrom
3/5/2024|Updated: 3/5/2024
0:00

Wellington-based professional women’s rugby team, The Hurricanes, will issue an apology to the New Zealand government after a haka, a Maori ceremonial war dance, labelled the government “redneck.”

The team, known as the Poua, used an altered haka that included the phrase “karetao o te Kāwana kakiwhero” which translates as “puppets of this redneck government,” before the Super Rugby Aupiki season opener against the Chiefs Manawa.

Rex Widerstrom
Rex Widerstrom
Author
Rex Widerstrom is a New Zealand-based reporter with over 40 years of experience in media, including radio and print. He is currently a presenter for Hutt Radio.
Author’s Selected Articles

Ardern to Face Questions at COVID Inquiry Over Lockdowns, Mandates

Jul 11, 2025
Ardern to Face Questions at COVID Inquiry Over Lockdowns, Mandates

Report Alleges CFMEU Used Intimidation Tactics to Silence Opposition

Jul 10, 2025
Report Alleges CFMEU Used Intimidation Tactics to Silence Opposition

‘Tough Day’: After 100 Years, Australia’s Largest Peanut Processor to Shut Down

Jul 10, 2025
‘Tough Day’: After 100 Years, Australia’s Largest Peanut Processor to Shut Down

Quantum Batteries a Step Closer to Reality Thanks to Australian Breakthrough

Jul 08, 2025
Quantum Batteries a Step Closer to Reality Thanks to Australian Breakthrough
Related Topics
New Zealand
New Zealand politics
New Zealand rugby
Save
The Epoch Times
To ensure we reach the high standards of reliability and neutrality that you expect from us, we are engaging with Ad Fontes Media to analyze our content. If you find an article you think falls short of the standard, please submit the link through this form.
Copyright © 2000 - 2025 The Epoch Times Association Inc. All Rights Reserved.