Te Mataarae i Orehu will defend their national kapa haka title for 2013.
In a shock result Te Mataarae were the only Te Arawa group of six to make the top nine to compete in the finals of Te Matatini Kapa Haka Festival.
Up to 15,000 spectators packed the RotoruaInternational stadium for the final pool round today. The nine groups are Opotiki Mai Tawhiti, Te Whanau a Apanui, Waiherere, Te Iti Kahurangi, Whangara Mai Tawhiti, Wakahuia, Te Mataarae i Orehu, Te Pou O Mangataawhiri and Tu Te Manawa Maurea.
It's been an intense challenge these last three days with all 41 groups giving their best in the sweltering heat.
The top nine will begin their performances tomorrow morning, with Wakahuia the first group to perform at 8.45am. Te Matarae are the second group up and are scheduled to perform at 9.22am. Tickets for the final day are limited but organisers said they will go on sale at the gate from 7am.
