NZ Rugby Team to Apologise for Calling Government “Redneck”

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. Hurricanes CEO Avan Lee said he was disappointed, confirming there was no consultation with management before the performance by the players. “Certainly disappointed. There was no discussion, no consultation, and some of the words that were used, were interpreted to be very strong,” he said....