The four teams who will compete in ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup matches in Whangarei have been welcomed to the city.
A powhiri was held at Terenga Paraoa marae on Porowini Ave yesterday for the teams from Afghanistan, Ireland, Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
After a cultural briefing from kaumatua Dick Shepherd to the teams, the challenge was laid down before the teams were called on to the marae.
Inside, kaumatua Taipari Munro and Whangarei mayor Sheryl Mai welcomed the players, officials and supporters to Whangarei. Ms Mai then presented the captains of each team with a taonga - a hand carved purerehua.
The ancient wind instruments were traditionally used by Maori as a method of communication in both the physical and spiritual worlds. Its gifting symbolises a long lasting connection between New Zealand and the teams' respective countries.