Shaolin warriors have been welcomed to New Zealand for their first-ever performance. The group of five showcased death-defying acts in front of a cheering crowd at the Auckland's Ponsonby Intermediate School.

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Their performance incorporated skill, concentration, and athleticism.

One of the performers showed his ability to withstand pain by sticking sharp rods in his throat.  His colleague also amazed the crowd by using his abs as a chopping board. 

The whole display was based on a tale of two recent graduates in their quest for enlightenment.

Each new scene featured new risks, and the performers displayed their agility. The tempo increased as sticks and swords were introduced to the performance.

The warriors have been practicing the art for over 16 years. Wang Changnian, 34, has been training for 26 years.

"I have been training since I was eight. I started at a very young age and studied very long time to become a master," Wang said.

The life-long commitment including training in physical combat and spiritual concentration.

Shaolin Kung Fu doubles as martial arts and Zen philosophy, a deeply rooted Chinese culture.

The Shaolin warriors are set to have two more shows in New Zealand. One would be at the St. James Theatre, Wellington from 31 August to 4 September and the last will be in Auckland from 7-11 September. 

TagsShaolin, Zen Philosophy, china, new zealand