National kapa haka festival kicks off

A Kapa haka group performs at last year's festival. Photo / Supplied

Te Matatini Kapa Haka Festival 2013 has gotten underway with a rousing powhiri (welcome) performed by more than 200 Te Arawa warriors this morning.

The four day festival which sees 41 teams vying for the Duncan McIntyre Trophy for overall winner of the event, is being held at the Rotorua International Stadium.

More than 1000 visitors and dignitaries including Te Arikinui Kiingi Tuhetia, the Maori King were welcomed by Te Arawa.

The competition begins tomorrow with the gates opening at 7am daily. The first performance starts at 8.45am with Te Arawa's first group Kataore performing at 2.27pm.