Haka Halts New Zealand Parliament After Maori MP Oriini Kaipara’s Maiden Speech Sparks Uproar

In a dramatic moment inside New Zealand’s Parliament, proceedings were briefly suspended after a haka broke out during the maiden speech of Te Pati Maori MP Oriini Kaipara. Kaipara began her address with a waiata — a traditional Maori song — performed across the chamber and echoed by supporters in the public gallery. The emotional performance, customary during significant cultural occasions, was followed by a powerful haka that filled the chamber with chants and stomps. The unexpected display left Speaker Gerry Brownlee visibly confused. He was seen raising his hands and later walked out, suspending Parliament. Upon his return, Brownlee announced an investigation into whether anyone had prior knowledge of the haka being planned. This is not the first time Maori cultural expressions have disrupted proceedings — last November, several Maori Party MPs were suspended for performing a haka in protest during a legislative session. The incident has reignited debate in New Zealand about the balance between cultural expression and parliamentary protocol, as the country continues to embrace its bicultural identity while navigating the formalities of governance. The Indian Express covers a wide spectrum of national and international news, including daily updates, political developments, election coverage, gadget and mobile reviews, technology updates, entertainment news, Bollywood trends, sports news and public opinions on daily topics. The Indian Express's comprehensive coverage extends to global events, providing insightful analysis on international affairs. With a focus on both Indian and global perspectives, the Indian Express delivers top-notch editorial analysis and in-depth reporting. Stay informed with the latest news, trends, explained and expert views from India and around the world. You can search us on YouTube by: @indianexpress, indian express, indian express newspaper today,indian express newspaper,indian express editorial analysis,indian express analysis,indian express analysis today,indian express,indian express news,the indian express newspaper analysis,the indian express,the indian express newspaper analysis today,the indian express editorial analysis,the indian express newspaper. Stay Tuned To Indian Express For More Updates: https://indianexpress.com/ Watch Out Our Weekly Shows: 🡆 Political Pulse - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrDg7LoYgk9yWQFKrxgIIWgWV-Mbq2jwC 🡆 Express Explained In 60 Seconds - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrDg7LoYgk9wf6MYiN9rR3zN3f-lWmfaS 🡆 Zero Hour with Derek O' Brien - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrDg7LoYgk9w95L5sHxAhGVlNgsRFhMHq 🡆 Indian Express Explained - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrDg7LoYgk9y8Wm50M57nutw5usWUkb-k 🡆 UPSC Essentials- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuhtH8j4stw&list=PLrDg7LoYgk9wBTnLuSQmbj1_6U1K6IOYI