Watch classmates honor a star student with a performance of the Haka

A star student received the honor of a lifetime when her classmates performed the Haka as a tribute.

Naomi Sai Antiporta finished top of her class at her school in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand’s North Island. To mark the occasion, her classmates wanted to do something special, so they treated the valedictorian to a powerful performance of the Haka.

Watch this valedictorian honored by her classmates with a heartfelt Haka

The traditional dance is sacred to the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand. It’s famous around the world as part of the pre-game ritual of the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team. However, though it’s commonly seen as a war dance, it’s also used to honor achievement and celebrate pride, strength, and unity.

“It is truly a privilege to experience the culture of New Zealanders, especially Haka from Maori culture,” Naomi Sai Antiporta said. “I want to acknowledge the people I have met along the way. Those who helped and guided me.”

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Haka performed by New Zealand teens to celebrate their valedictorian