Skip to content

"Goosebumps"- Wales' response to All Blacks haka steals show in Cardiff

Wales Rugby News
Screenshot 2026-11-14 at 14.08.47
A moment steeped in rugby history came to life at Principality Stadium as Wales responded to the All Blacks' traditional Haka with a spectacular reply.
Paying homage to the iconic 1905 encounter between the two nations, when Wales famously answered the All Blacks' challenge with the Welsh National Anthem at Cardiff Arms Park, the presentation offered a modern take on one of rugby's most enduring traditions.
As the stadium lights dimmed, the All Blacks were placed in a single spotlight to perform their Haka, commanding the attention of the crowd.
Wales then responded, illuminated by a deep red backlight and surrounded by smoke in a striking display, the Welsh Rugby Union labelled as the 'Dragon's Breath'.
With red light, the colour of Wales, sweeping across the stadium, Steve Tandy's side stood in a powerful visual response to the New Zealand challenge.

Fans react to Wales' stunning haka spectacle

The remarkable scenes at the Principality Stadium sparked a wave of praise online, with fans blown away by the dramatic lighting and Wales' response to the haka.
@TGunner28 wrote: "The Haka being performed in the spotlight with the roof closed at The Principality Stadium to give this effect while the Welsh are illuminated by a red cloud is incredible. What imagery!"
@MatthewStadlen added: "Stunning lighting and choreography at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff for the All Blacks’ Haka. Worth looking up the pictures."
@DMAC_10 was equally impressed: "Ok now that might’ve been the coolest haka scenes a venue has done for us."
@rippingsilk praised the hosts: "Nice setup for the Haka. Kudos Wales, my brothers."
The reaction showed how Wales had turned a traditional pre-match ritual into something genuinely spectacular, earning praise from supporters on both sides.

🏉 Think you can build the ultimate rugby XV?

You've got 15 rounds to draft your dream team from rugby's biggest stars.
Pick wisely, use your lifelines and see if you can climb the RUCK leaderboard.
🔥 Think you can beat the top score?
loading

Loading