There could not have been a more inspiring setting for a Waitangi Day dawn ceremony than the old terraced sound shell at the foot of Hopukiore (Mount Drury) at Mount Maunganui.
The sun was waiting to creep over the horizon as the Ratana band, Te Reo Te Tuatoru, began proceedings, with military trim, before a crowd of about 300.
The crowd was seated on the terraces facing the official party and a beautiful view of a gentle sea.
This year's ceremony is to commemorate the 177th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.
The service begun with a karakia (blessing) by tangata whenua and was be followed by a community service, speeches by dignitaries and hymns.