Newlyweds Jackson and Jennifer Tamaariki are the first to admit their relationship is multiculturally-rare, so they decided to dedicate a portion of their reception to celebrate it.
The Kurdish bride, who migrated from Syria to New Zealand with her family in 1995, and Maori groom, wed in Auckland earlier this month, having dating for more than five years.
The specially-choreographed haka incorporated elements of both Kurdish and Polynesian culture. Watching on with tears in her eyes, bride Jennifer, 25, says it was a moving experience.
“It was very emotional,” Jennifer – a defence lawyer – told Stuff.co.nz.
“I think it’s quite uncommon for a Maori man to be married to a Kurdish woman… It was important for our families and for us, and allowed our guests an insight into the cultural dynamics of our relationship.”
In the video, the bride and groom are seen taking to the dance floor while Polynesian drums beat in the background. Shortly after, a group of loved ones and friends emerge to perform the special, original haka.
As a perfect final touch to their multicultural wedding, guests were then treated to traditional Kurdish dancing.
You can watch the full video of the unique wedding haka below.
