Corporate Haka Workshop for British Telecom

BT was seeking a high impact performance to complement a major launch event. The purpose of the event was to ask delegates to look at approaching issues in a new way and to think outside the box. BT approached Manaia as they wanted an activity that reflected this by exposing delegates to something different and challenging.

The event was to be held in the BT centre in St Pauls and Manaia choreographed a high impact performance to take place in the morning to greet delegates on their arrival. The performance commenced with the puutaatara or conch shells echoing throughout the 10 level open pavilion as Manaia "warriors" dressed in traditional costume stormed down the gangway and a performance of the haka "Ka mate" followed. Later on, after lunch, Manaia returned and provided a second performance and then split the delegates into teams, teaching the words and actions to the haka "ka mate". The delegates then returned and performed the haka in their own teams followed by a finale of 100 people performing the haka together.

"Manaia delivered a highly charged, dramatic performance. It had impact and captured the attention of everyone who attended. Participation levels were high and the experience proved stimulating, informative and fun. We were impressed by the professionalism of Manaia in their approach. Their commitment and passion in advancing understanding of the haka was impressive."

Nigel Smith, Principal Consultant for BT Group