Performances may not start until Thursday, but the powerful vibe could already be felt during Wednesday's powhiri welcoming people for Te Matatini 2017.
Thousands filled McLean Park in Napier- which was transformed into a paepae for the occasion - so Ngāti Kahungunu could welcome the Manuhiri.
It's just the second time Ngāti Kahungunu - whose ancestral lands stretch down the east coast from Hawke's Bay to Wairarapa - have hosted the biannual competition.
This year, 47 groups will vie for the top spot over a four-day competition at Kahungunu Park.
Winners will be crowned on Sunday.
