A Commemorative Military March is currently unfolding along Cameron Rd, from Tauranga Girls' College to Gate Pa Reserve, to mark today's 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gate Pa.

Thousands of onlookers are lining the closed road to view the spectacular sight of military units and soldiers marching to the reserve, with a number of drummers performing to signify the battle's 42 drummers in General Cameron's army.

Maori warriors emerge ready for battle. Photos by Tracy Hardy.

Governor General Sir Jerry Mateparae is joining the march and will be issued a wero – challenge – before he, along with Crown ministers, proceed to the reserve.

A mass haka will begin at the reserve, with more than 500 people from various tribes and iwi taking part.

At 3pm Dr Peter Sharples will make a response on behalf of manuhiri [visitors] with waiata [song].

After an opening karakia [prayer] at 3.20pm by Tamati Tata, the ceremony will begin with MC Charlie Rihari inviting the Governor-General to deliver a short address.

Following a blessing and scripture reading, and a korero [talk] by Monseigneur Frank Eggleton, the LDS Choir will lead singing of hymn ‘Abide with Me' with music by the NZ Army band.

Justice Joe Williams will deliver the inaugural Battle of Gate Pa Address, with waiata by Ngati Pukenga, while St George's Church vicar John Hebenton will deliver an Address of Reconciliation, followed by a Military salute.

Ngai Tamarawaho will leads singing of the national anthem, with music by the NZ Army band, then a military order arms, followed by a blessing and benediction for safe travel, and the military parade falling out.

Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman is joining local Iwi to commemorate

the battle of Gate Pa - Pukehinahina.

'It's important that we remember and honour those who served during the New Zealand wars, and today marks the 150th anniversary of the battle of Gate Pa.

'Gate Pa was a significant victory for the heavily outnumbered Maori forces. It was one of the heaviest British defeats of the New Zealand Wars. '

Jonathan says 111 colonial troops were either killed or wounded. The number of Maori warriors killed was estimated at 20.

'We come together today to pay tribute to those who lost their lives 150 years ago, and to reflect on how the New Zealand Wars helped to shape New Zealand as a nation.”

Attendees at today's ceremony include the Maori King, Te Arikinui Tuhei

tia Kiingi Paki, the Governor-General, Lieutenant General The Right Honourable Sir Jerry Mateparae, Minister of Maori Affairs Pita Sharples, and Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant General Tim Keating.

Photos below by Tracy Hardy.

Photos below by Luke Balvert.