INDEPENDENT NEWS

Massive haka challenges leaders in Copenhagen

Published: Sun 6 Dec 2009 09:12 AM
Massive haka challenges leaders in Copenhagen
(Video) On Saturday a massive haka in Auckland challenged world leaders to seal a fair, ambitious and binding climate change deal at the upcoming UN climate change conference. The haka was led by world-renowned kapa haka group Te Puru o Tamaki and involved the entire audience of the 'PLANET A
- Concert for the Climate'.
The haka will be projected onto a huge screen outside the Bella Centre in Copenhagen for all decision makers to see as they prepare to negotiate a new global climate agreement.
Oxfam climate change campaigner Susi Newborn said, "This was a resounding statement by the people of Aotearoa New Zealand to those who are making decisions on our behalf - Copenhagen is the time and the place to deliver a fair, ambitious and binding deal."
Vulnerable communities around the world are already struggling with the effects of climate change, which they did not cause - worsening droughts, salination of fresh water supplies, food shortages, stronger storms, and the very real threat of being displaced.
Newborn said, "There were about 5000 people here today. It's likely that this was the biggest haka ever performed.
"Heads of State and climate negotiators don't need more time...they need determination. And this crowd just gave it to them."
Ends

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