Ka Mate' the haka, is not only New Zealand's most recognisable image throughout the world it's also our most controversial. Honored, celebrated, satirised and plagiarized, it's even been through the courts. Watching the rise of the haka have been the Ngati Toa people, whose ancestor was the composer. This documentary delves into early 1800's Maori back story, and continues with the rise in popularity of the haka on the national and international stage. Controversy and abuse of the haka have reflected a quest for the Ngati Toa people to ensure it is respected. Their struggle for the well being of their community a reflection of the famous words. Ka mate, ka mate Ka ora, ka ora, I die, I die, I live, I live!