A Son’s Passionate Haka: A Heartfelt Celebration of His Mother’s Graduation

Teen performs powerful haka to honor mom on her graduation day in emotional TikTok: ‘Instant tears’

A Viral TikTok Video Captures a Teen’s Moving Tribute to His Mother During Her Graduation Ceremony

A Son’s Passionate Haka

In the serene yet bustling Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand, the Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology witnessed a touching display of cultural pride and familial love on March 31, 2023. A heartwarming video posted on TikTok captured an unforgettable moment when a 13-year-old boy, Tawhiri, performed a passionate haka to celebrate his mother Irene’s graduation.

The video, filmed by Tawhiri’s sister Shayana Moses, shows him standing up from the audience seating area as their mother prepares to receive her bachelor’s degree in social work. “None of our family knew he was going to get up and do a haka for my mum; it was all a big surprise for us,” Shayana shared. The spontaneous performance left the audience and their family in awe.

Shayana further explained that Tawhiri “knew he had to get up” to celebrate their mother because it “felt just right” to do so. Indeed, graduating college while raising children is a monumental achievement, and Tawhiri’s instinctive decision to honor his mother with the haka was a fitting tribute.

The haka, a ceremonial Māori dance, is traditionally performed in groups to represent pride, unity, and strength. Its significance is well-recognized worldwide, often showcased at sporting events and significant personal milestones. In this context, Tawhiri’s solo performance underscored his deep respect and pride for his mother’s accomplishment.

As Tawhiri began the familiar call and stance of the haka, the room’s attention shifted entirely to him. The graduation ceremony paused, allowing the boy to complete his powerful performance. His voice resonated with pride, and soon, others in the crowd joined in singing the ceremonial chant, amplifying the emotional impact of the moment.

In the text overlay on the video, Shayana wrote, “My mom graduating her bachelor in social work & my little brother getting up to Tautoko the best way we know how.” The term “Tautoko” means to support, prop up, verify, advocate, and accept in Māori. This expression of support was evident as Tawhiri’s haka became a symbolic prop for his mother’s achievements, lifting her higher in the eyes of everyone present.

Why this Rotorua boy’s emotional haka for his mum went viral | The Project NZ

The video, shared on TikTok by Shay Ana, has garnered over 4.3 million views. The outpouring of support in the comments highlights the universal appreciation for such heartfelt expressions of love and cultural pride. One commenter noted, “He didn’t care what anyone thought. He was going to pay his respects to his mother.” Another added, “Whenever I see these done I always get so emotional! They are so powerful. What a beautiful part of your culture.”

Tawhiri’s unexpected yet passionate haka not only celebrated his mother’s academic success but also showcased the enduring power of cultural traditions and the profound bonds within families. This heartfelt act has resonated with millions, serving as a reminder of the importance of honoring and supporting our loved ones in meaningful ways.

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