It's the time of the year when all the cowboys come out of the red manuka at Pawarenga.
According to Piri Kapa Pirini, “There are horses here today from all over the Hokianga to race and play and to support our local hapū.”
Some have come a long way from where they reside overseas to celebrate with their kin at home.
“It's good for them to come home, not just to celebrate, but more importantly, to be with family.”
While the horse races have always been the highlight of the day, there's a whole range of events and activities provided, to enable all ages to participate and support the marae of Te Uri o Tai in Pawarenga.