Nga Manu Krero is a Maori term that translates into "orator" and the competition is designed to help secondary school students develop their public speaking abilities in Maori and English.
The students are marked by a panel of judges. "To stand in front of people is not an easy things to do," says judge Dr Joseph Te Rito.
"So that's how you can tell the ones that really want to further themselves, those ones who are not scared, that's how you can tell those that will emerge as future leaders, those who are fearless."
Students can participate in the impromptu section, where they are given only five minutes to prepare and then deliver a speech, or the prepared section - but no matter what, cue cards are strictly forbidden.
"This really is such a special event for Ngati Kahungunu to help keep the language alive and well and for all the young ones to be able get a grasp of how important this is," said Te Ao Marama Ngarotata, a student at TKKM o Ngati Kahungunu ki Heretaunga.
Te Aranga Hakiwai, a student from Te Aute College, believes the competition is a great opportunity to give Kahungunu youth a voice.
"For me, it's a chance for the region of Ngati Kahungunu to hear what's important to all the young people of Ngati Kahungunu."
The competition is held at three different levels - school, regionals and then those who qualify will take the stage in front of thousands at the national competition.
This year the national final will be hosted by Te Whanganui-a-Tara ki Otaki at the Te Rauparaha Arena in Porirua from Monday 21 right through to Thursday 24 of September.
