Purpose
Achievement Criteria
Explanatory Note 1
This Achievement Standard is derived from the New Zealand Curriculum, Learning Media, Ministry of Education, 2007, and relates to the objectives of the Big Ideas at Level 6 of the Te Ao Haka Learning Matrix at Curriculum Levels 6, 7 and 8.
Explanatory Note 2
Perform an item from a Te Ao Haka discipline involves:
- demonstrating one item from any one discipline from start to end.
Communicate an item from a Te Ao Haka discipline involves:
- demonstrating consistent engagement for the duration of the performance
- conveying the style of the discipline through the performance, inclusive of iwi, hapū, or rohe variation.
Express an item from a Te Ao Haka discipline involves:
- executing a performance capable of engaging an audience
- embodying the style of the discipline through the performance.
Explanatory Note 3
An item refers to a composition or performance which includes key features of Te Ao Haka in its movement, voice, and lyrics.
Explanatory Note 4
Discipline refers to a performance branch within Te Ao Haka.
Disciplines include:
- mōteatea
- waiata ā-ringa
- poi
- haka, haka wahine
- whakaeke
- whakawātea.
Explanatory Note 5
Consistent engagement depends on the nature of the performance itself, but may be shown by maintaining energy levels, clarity of voice, synchronicity and flow of actions throughout the performance.
Conditions of Assessment
The evidence for this Achievement Standard will be provided through a performance by ākonga, which may be performed with or without an audience. It may be presented as a live performance, however, a recording must also be captured and submitted.
Performances may be performed as an individual or in a group.
Performances presented for another purpose, for instance at a community or school event, or as part of a competition may be used as evidence for this Achievement Standard.
Kaiako should ensure the rigour of the outcome is appropriate for Level 6 of the New Zealand Curriculum.
Evidence may be presented through physical demonstration, or other formats, including:
- video recordings of the performance
- performance in front of a kaiako or examiner (must be recorded)
- performances on digital platforms
- format as agreed between student and teacher as reliable and assessable
- a combination of formats as appropriate.
The ākonga must be clearly visible for the full duration of any recorded performance. This ensures that assessors are able to observe the individual’s performance demonstrating their discipline, and make accurate, reliable judgements based on the evidence presented. Clear visibility of the ākonga in the recorded video supports the integrity of the assessment process.
Useful Pages
Unpacking the Standard
Te Ao Haka is an expression of mātauranga Māori, shaped by iwi, hapū, and rohe-specific knowledge systems. This Achievement Standard invites ākonga to engage with Te Ao Haka through the performance of a single item from a Te Ao Haka discipline, drawing on the unique style, intent, and cultural meaning embedded in each form. Performance is not just about technical delivery — it is about presence, connection, and the ability to communicate kaupapa with integrity.
Learning focuses on how engagement, style, and expression are demonstrated through performance, particularly through the use of movement, voice, and lyrics that highlight the key features of Te Ao Haka. This reflects the values and knowledge systems that underpin the discipline. Ākonga explore how each discipline presents distinct key features, and how performing an item with deliberate attention to these shows a deep understanding of the tradition it represents. This Achievement Standard supports a broader journey of cultural confidence and respectful engagement with the practices that shape Te Ao Haka.
Te Ao Haka is an expression of mātauranga Māori, shaped by iwi, hapū, and rohe-specific knowledge systems. This Achievement Standard invites ākonga to engage with Te Ao Haka through the performance of a single item from a Te Ao Haka discipline, drawing on the unique style, intent, and cultural meaning embedded in each form. Performance is not just about technical delivery — it is about presence, connection, and the ability to communicate kaupapa with integrity.
Learning focuses on how engagement, style, and expression are demonstrated through performance, particularly through the use of movement, voice, and lyrics that highlight the key features of Te Ao Haka. This reflects the values and knowledge systems that underpin the discipline. Ākonga explore how each discipline presents distinct key features, and how performing an item with deliberate attention to these shows a deep understanding of the tradition it represents. This Achievement Standard supports a broader journey of cultural confidence and respectful engagement with the practices that shape Te Ao Haka.
The intent of the Standard
The purpose of this Achievement Standard is for ākonga to demonstrate their performance skills — an important component of Te Ao Haka as a Māori performing art form.
Ākonga will demonstrate their ability to perform a complete item from a Te Ao Haka discipline. The emphasis is on the performance as a whole — ākonga are expected to demonstrate the item from beginning to end, showing an understanding of its structure, flow, and stylistic features.
As ākonga progress, they are expected to demonstrate a deepening understanding of performance within Te Ao Haka — moving from foundational technical skills to more nuanced, authentic, and confident expressions. Performance, as recognised by the Achievement Standard, is not solely technical. It is expressive, communicative, and deeply connected to identity. Ākonga are encouraged to engage with the kaupapa of the item, embody its intent, and connect with their audience in a way that reflects the discipline’s unique style. This includes iwi, hapū, or rohe variation, where relevant, and supports the cultural integrity of the performance.
Consistent engagement is a key aspect of the assessment. While this may look different depending on the nature of the item, it can be demonstrated through maintained energy levels, clarity of voice, synchronicity, and the flow of actions throughout the performance. These elements help convey a sense of presence and commitment, contributing to the overall impact of the item.
Although the Achievement Standard focuses on the performance of a single item, it sits within a broader teaching and learning programme that provides ākonga with opportunities to explore a wide range of disciplines within Te Ao Haka. This wider exposure supports their understanding of stylistic variation and deepens their connection to the cultural foundations of each discipline.
Making reliable judgements
This Achievement Standard focuses on how well ākonga perform, communicate, and express a complete item from a Te Ao Haka discipline. Ākonga will demonstrate a development in competence across these aspects, and performance quality can vary while still meeting the intent of the standard.
For the purpose of this Achievement Standard, ākonga are required to perform one item from any one discipline from start to finish. The item should be complete and recognisable, with key features of Te Ao Haka in its movement, voice, and lyrics present throughout. Even where confidence or precision is still developing, the structure and flow of the item should be clear.
At higher levels of achievement, ākonga demonstrate consistent and purposeful engagement. This may be evident through sustained energy, clarity of voice, synchronicity, and smooth transitions — all contributing to a cohesive performance. The performance reflects both technical skill and a strong connection to the style of the discipline, including iwi, hapū, or rohe variation where relevant. As understanding deepens, iwi, hapū, or rohe-specific features become more evident, showing greater cultural awareness and enhancing the integrity of the performance. Expression is where the performance begins to resonate. As confidence grows, ākonga deliver with authenticity and intent, using movement, voice, and lyrics to engage the audience and embody the style of the chosen Te Ao Haka discipline.
Reliable judgements are based on observable evidence — such as engagement, iwi, hapū, or rohe variation, execution, and the embodiment of the discipline’s style — and a clear understanding of how these components develop across levels of achievement.
Collecting evidence
Examples of ways ākonga can show their evidence include:
- video recordings of performances (live or rehearsed)
- audio recordings to capture vocal elements (to accompany a video recording)
- kaiako observation notes from rehearsals and informal performances (to accompany a video recording)
- student reflections or journals showing intent, cultural understanding, and growth (to accompany a video recording)
- peer and self-assessments using structured rubrics (to accompany a video recording).
Kaiako should encourage ākonga to build portfolios that include rehearsal footage, feedback, and commentary, supporting a fuller picture of their learning journey.
The ākonga must be clearly visible for the full duration of any recorded performance. This ensures that assessors are able to observe the individual’s performance demonstrating their discipline, and make accurate, reliable judgements based on the evidence presented. Clear visibility supports the integrity of the assessment process and allows the richness of the performance to be fully recognised.
Possible contexts
Rich contexts help ākonga connect deeply with the kaupapa of their performance and generate meaningful evidence. Examples include:
- school or marae-based events such as pōwhiri, Matariki celebrations, or kapa haka festivals
- marae-based learning where performances are embedded in tikanga and whanaungatanga
- interdisciplinary projects linking Te Ao Haka with History, Te Reo Māori, or Pūtaiao
- ākonga-led creative projects where ākonga interpret and perform an item based on a chosen kaupapa
- regional or national competitions such as Ngā Manu Kōrero or Polyfest.
Contexts should support whakawhanaungatanga, allowing ākonga to build relationships, collaborate, and reflect on their identity. Kaiako should ensure that the chosen context allows for emotional engagement, cultural authenticity, and expressive freedom.
The intent of the Standard
The purpose of this Achievement Standard is for ākonga to demonstrate their performance skills — an important component of Te Ao Haka as a Māori performing art form.
Ākonga will demonstrate their ability to perform a complete item from a Te Ao Haka discipline. The emphasis is on the performance as a whole — ākonga are expected to demonstrate the item from beginning to end, showing an understanding of its structure, flow, and stylistic features.
As ākonga progress, they are expected to demonstrate a deepening understanding of performance within Te Ao Haka — moving from foundational technical skills to more nuanced, authentic, and confident expressions. Performance, as recognised by the Achievement Standard, is not solely technical. It is expressive, communicative, and deeply connected to identity. Ākonga are encouraged to engage with the kaupapa of the item, embody its intent, and connect with their audience in a way that reflects the discipline’s unique style. This includes iwi, hapū, or rohe variation, where relevant, and supports the cultural integrity of the performance.
Consistent engagement is a key aspect of the assessment. While this may look different depending on the nature of the item, it can be demonstrated through maintained energy levels, clarity of voice, synchronicity, and the flow of actions throughout the performance. These elements help convey a sense of presence and commitment, contributing to the overall impact of the item.
Although the Achievement Standard focuses on the performance of a single item, it sits within a broader teaching and learning programme that provides ākonga with opportunities to explore a wide range of disciplines within Te Ao Haka. This wider exposure supports their understanding of stylistic variation and deepens their connection to the cultural foundations of each discipline.
Making reliable judgements
This Achievement Standard focuses on how well ākonga perform, communicate, and express a complete item from a Te Ao Haka discipline. Ākonga will demonstrate a development in competence across these aspects, and performance quality can vary while still meeting the intent of the standard.
For the purpose of this Achievement Standard, ākonga are required to perform one item from any one discipline from start to finish. The item should be complete and recognisable, with key features of Te Ao Haka in its movement, voice, and lyrics present throughout. Even where confidence or precision is still developing, the structure and flow of the item should be clear.
At higher levels of achievement, ākonga demonstrate consistent and purposeful engagement. This may be evident through sustained energy, clarity of voice, synchronicity, and smooth transitions — all contributing to a cohesive performance. The performance reflects both technical skill and a strong connection to the style of the discipline, including iwi, hapū, or rohe variation where relevant. As understanding deepens, iwi, hapū, or rohe-specific features become more evident, showing greater cultural awareness and enhancing the integrity of the performance. Expression is where the performance begins to resonate. As confidence grows, ākonga deliver with authenticity and intent, using movement, voice, and lyrics to engage the audience and embody the style of the chosen Te Ao Haka discipline.
Reliable judgements are based on observable evidence — such as engagement, iwi, hapū, or rohe variation, execution, and the embodiment of the discipline’s style — and a clear understanding of how these components develop across levels of achievement.
Collecting evidence
Examples of ways ākonga can show their evidence include:
- video recordings of performances (live or rehearsed)
- audio recordings to capture vocal elements (to accompany a video recording)
- kaiako observation notes from rehearsals and informal performances (to accompany a video recording)
- student reflections or journals showing intent, cultural understanding, and growth (to accompany a video recording)
- peer and self-assessments using structured rubrics (to accompany a video recording).
Kaiako should encourage ākonga to build portfolios that include rehearsal footage, feedback, and commentary, supporting a fuller picture of their learning journey.
The ākonga must be clearly visible for the full duration of any recorded performance. This ensures that assessors are able to observe the individual’s performance demonstrating their discipline, and make accurate, reliable judgements based on the evidence presented. Clear visibility supports the integrity of the assessment process and allows the richness of the performance to be fully recognised.
Possible contexts
Rich contexts help ākonga connect deeply with the kaupapa of their performance and generate meaningful evidence. Examples include:
- school or marae-based events such as pōwhiri, Matariki celebrations, or kapa haka festivals
- marae-based learning where performances are embedded in tikanga and whanaungatanga
- interdisciplinary projects linking Te Ao Haka with History, Te Reo Māori, or Pūtaiao
- ākonga-led creative projects where ākonga interpret and perform an item based on a chosen kaupapa
- regional or national competitions such as Ngā Manu Kōrero or Polyfest.
Contexts should support whakawhanaungatanga, allowing ākonga to build relationships, collaborate, and reflect on their identity. Kaiako should ensure that the chosen context allows for emotional engagement, cultural authenticity, and expressive freedom.