Peep Show Offers Insight Into Haka

The DCC is supporting Ngai Tahu in the creation and installation of a major community art display during Dunedin’s RWC 2011 season.

The “Haka Peep Show” will feature performances of New Zealand’s iconic call to arms/challenge in a video format showing from a booth erected in the Lower Octagon.

It is 24 years since NZ hosted, or won, the Rugby World Cup. In that time the role of the haka in mainstream NZ has thrived, in large part due to the changing role of the haka in rugby, and the huge uptake in advertising and the media exploiting and promoting Maori culture.

The self-contained coin-operated 3D video art-work considers the sexualisation and commercial exploitation of Maori and indigenous sportsmen, their masculinity and their culture in the media.

The ‘Peep Show’ is the work of ground-breaking digital video artist Rachael Rakena, a graduate from Otago Polytechnic’s Art School.

She describes her work as “role reversal - women paying to watch men,” and the only opportunity to watch the haka in Dunedin during the RWC 2011 Tournament.

Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull, explaining the Council’s decision to support the project, said: “The DCC, in keeping with its commitment to work closely with is mana whenua partners and to support and encourage Ngai Tahu cultural initiatives is pleased to contribute $50,000 towards the ‘Haka Peep Show’ created by Rachael Rakena. This is a unique way of showing visitors to Dunedin for RWC 2011 and our residents of the increasingly strong ties that exist between Ngai Tahu and the city.”

Meanwhile, Edward Ellison comments: “The artwork, and the conversation the artist brings to the city, is creative and will enrich our understanding of the underlying issues it draws inspiration from.”

“Haka Peep Show” will remain on display in Dunedin’s Lower Octagon during RWC 2011.