An estimated 25,000 people were drawn to today's events at the10th Coronation of King Tūheitia. And when they weren't feasting on Kai from the Night Markets, they were enjoying some of New Zealand's best Haka groups.
Waka Huia hit the stage today for a full house. Young and old - more than 30 groups came to entertain the crowd.
“You can see the love. All the people come have come to give their love so all these sorts of words are things you hold onto to. It's absolutely beautiful,” says Tukiterangi Curtis from Te Arawa
The University of Waikato there in support.
“First of all, our University is based in the Waikato so we should be here at the Coronation to support King Tuheitia,” says Tiahuia Ropitini from Te Waiora
With all Waikato-Tainui here embracing the masses.
"I'm employed by Wintec and a teacher for one of the kapahaka but today I'm a volunteer like all the thousands who have been doing it for years."
Tomorrow is the King's day where he is set to give his inaugural speech.