Controversy Erupts Over Haka Directed at ACT MP Parmjeet Parmar

Former Te Pāti Māori president Che Wilson faces criticism for a haka containing alleged racial slurs and stereotypes directed at ACT MP Parmjeet Parmar.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 23, 2026, 5:49 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Content of the Haka

The haka included the phrase "purari karikari iniana," which has been interpreted as a racial slur against the Indian community. Performers were also observed sitting cross-legged with hands in a prayer position and mimicking head movements associated with Indian stereotypes.

Che Wilson defended the composition, stating that haka is a traditional platform for challenge and denigration in response to specific issues. He claimed the performance was aimed at Parmar’s political actions—specifically her seeking advice on whether Māori MPs could be imprisoned for their own Treaty Principles haka in Parliament last year—rather than the Indian community as a whole.

Widespread Condemnation

Despite Wilson's defense, the performance has been labeled as racist by several prominent figures:

Parmjeet Parmar (ACT): Stated the Indian community deserves to be treated with dignity and that "racism in any form is unacceptable."