World record haka attempt draws thousands

2:50 pm on 17 June 2017

An estimated 7700 people have taken part in an attempt in Rotorua to break the world record for the largest haka.

The official world record has been held by France since 2014, when 4028 people took part.

That record was beaten last year in Masterton by a 6000-person haka, though the achievement hasn't been officially ratified.

Thousands turned up to the world record attempt in Rotorua.

Photo: RNZ / Joe Porter

If today's numbers are confirmed, the haka at Rotorua's Lakeside Village Green would set a new record.

The International Rugby Club organised today's record attempt and co-founder Tony Molloy said he was confident the record haf been smashed.

"We're so ecstatic to have smashed the Largest Haka Guinness World Record today. The fans who turned up deserve a massive thanks - they were absolutely fantastic."

Thousands turned up to the world record attempt in Rotorua.

Thousands turned up to the world record attempt in Rotorua. Photo: RNZ / Joe Porter

The mass haka took place as the British and Irish Lions prepared to play the Māori All Blacks in Rotorua tonight.

"We've smashed the French out of the park," Mr Molloy said.

He said was where the record should be.

The event was put together by the International Rugby Club as part of the club's Rugby Safari which is following the Lions series as it tours New Zealand.

Local schools Rotorua Boys' High School and Rotorua Girls' High School helped to lead the haka with help from kaitātaki [leaders] Wētini Mitai Ngatai and Eraia Kiel.