Around 40 performers will storm the stage at Baypark this weekend, sending chills down the audience's spine as they share their passion and pride for kapa haka!

On Saturday, April 22, Hawaiki Herenga Haka will be an opportunity for Tauranga's community to experience local Te Matatini competitors in our own backyard for free.

Among the groups will be Ngā Taipakeke o Tauranga Moana, Tūtarakauika ki Rangataua from Mataatua, and Te Kapa Haka o Ngāti Ranginui from Ngāti Kahungunu.

'This event is all about recognising and celebrating the efforts of our senior kapa who have represented Tauranga as a whole at the highest stage of Te Matatini,” says Tauranga City Council strategic Māori engagement manager Carlo Ellis.

'To support an event like this that both thanks those kapa but makes their performances available to be enjoyed here at home, is a real privilege – and we hope it sets a precedent for how we celebrate as a community.”

School groups will also perform in the feast of top kapa haka performance including Te Whānau o Te Maro from Tauranga Intermediate.

'Adding the junior kapa haka teams is just another way to share the love and celebrate those that represent Tauranga on a national stage. Come along and enjoy!”

Hawaiki Herenga Haka is at Trustpower Arena, Baypark, from 11am-4pm on Saturday, April 22.