IShowSpeed mobbed by fans in New Zealand performs haka in ...
YouTube star IShowSpeed, known for his wild antics and global fanbase, was mobbed by excited fans during his tour of New Zealand.
The 19-year-old streamer, real name Darren Jason Watkins Jr., live-streamed his visit to Rotorua, showcasing the town and interacting with fans as part of his tour across Australia and New Zealand.
With over 33 million subscribers, Speed’s livestream attracted more than 53,000 live viewers at one point.
During his visit to Skyline Rotorua, Speed was surprised when a group performed the Ka Mate haka for him. “What the f*** is that? Oh yeah! I wanna do that!” he exclaimed. He eagerly joined in, learning the haka’s movements from a local who instructed the crowd to follow him with “two slaps on the thighs” before pulling their arms back to “bring it in for two.”
The Ohio native, who has collaborated with celebrities like Cristiano Ronaldo and WWE stars, also explored other Kiwi traditions.
Alongside New Zealand YouTuber Jimi Jackson, Speed raced in Zorbs, tasted a steak and cheese pie—declaring, “That meat pie was actually good!”—and learned local slang like “chur” and “mean.”
Speed’s enthusiastic attempt at leading the haka at Whakarewarewa – the Living Māori Village included shouts of “Kia mau!” and some creative improvisation with barking sounds and backflips.
After embracing rows of children and teenagers following his haka performance, Speed continued his cultural exploration with a “manu” dive-bomb into natural waters. He plans to visit Auckland and Queenstown next as his New Zealand tour progresses.
