Hastings Boys’ High beautiful waiata goes viral: ‘Connection in its purest form’

Students at Hastings Boys’ High School have seriously blown people away with their powerful voices and mana during a recent haka and waiata at assembly.

The moment was shared by MSFT Productions - an extreme sports brand founded by Jack Jensen - who’s been on a mission to connect with over 10,000 rangatahi this month.

As part of that journey, Jensen visited his old school, making the moment even more special. And judging by the clips now going viral online, it’s safe to say the welcome he received hit different.

Through his mental health initiative ‘Spark That Chat’, which he launched in 2021 after losing friends to suicide, Jensen is all about encouraging open conversations, connection, and vulnerability among young people.

And that connection was on full display at Hastings Boys’.

“Being welcomed in by the kapa haka group was something else. Powerful, moving, and honestly pretty hard to put into words,” Jensen shared on Facebook.

“One of those moments where you feel it in your chest… where you have to stop, breathe deep, and just take it all in.”

Videos of the performances have since racked up thousands of views online, with heaps of comments praising the students’ talent. The way their voices come together is seriously something else - the kind that gives you instant goosebumps.

“Felt that mana… strong and proud,” one person commented, while others described the performance as “beautiful” and “tough.”

Meanwhile, Jensen said it was “connection in its purest form.”

These moments are truly special and ones that the hall full of boys and Jensen will remember for a long time to come.

Are you or is someone you know struggling? Here are some resources available to support you, and remember, it's okay to talk.

• Lifeline 0800 543 354 or free text 4357 (HELP)

• Youthline 0800 376 633 or free text 234

• Samaritans 0800 726 666

• Suicide Crisis Helpline 0508 828 865

• Free call or text 1737 for support from a trained counsellor

• Call the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797

• Depression Helpline 0800 111 757 or free text 4202