Te Tai Tokerau Secondary School Festival kicks off in Whangārei

The Te Tai Tokerau Festival 2019 is under way in Whangārei, exhibiting the passion and skill of kapa haka in Northland's secondary schools.

The event, hosted by Whangārei Boys' and Girls' High Schools, saw students from 12 high schools in Northland take to the stages at Whangārei Girls' High School yesterday, with another 18 set to perform today.

The event is being livestreamed at https://tehiku.nz/te-hiku-tv/te-tai-tokerau-festival-2019/

Northern Advocate photographer Michael Cunningham headed along for the powhiri and the performances by the two host schools in front of a packed Mana Wāhine Gym.

James Repia issues a stern challenge.

Eli Smith with a taiaha during the wero.

Students and staff from secondary schools across Northland are welcomed at Whangārei Girls' High School.

Hope Puriri during the powhiri to start the Te Tai Tokerau Festival 2019.

Te Werawera Enoka-Poharama leads the Whangārei Boys' High School performance.

Nirvana Tapu-Manihera forms the front of the waka.

Javahn Roberts unleashes a fierce pukana.

Whangārei Girls' High School's Paea Slade in full flight during her school's performance.