A passionate wedding haka that moved a New Zealand bride to tears is making everyone else cry too.
The haka was a sign of respect from her husband’s best man and family not an attempt to intimidate him.
A haka – with its shouting, body-slapping and exaggerated facial expressions – is used in traditional Maori culture as a war cry to intimidate the enemy, but also to welcome special guests and at celebrations.
The video was filmed at the couple’s wedding reception in Auckland last week.
In it, they watch with emotion as the groomsmen and guests surprise them with a heartfelt performance of the traditional dance, before joining in themselves.
“I wasn’t planning on jumping in until one bridesmaid did,” said Ms Armstrong. “I felt the need to show love and respect back. I was really blown away.”
Women do not normally perform the haka in Maori culture but she said they can do at weddings.
The nearly three-minute video ends with the couple emotionally embracing the performers.
The haka was organized by the 23-year-old groom’s best man and was led by his older brother. It was filmed by her cousin’s production company.
h/t: BBC