Mr Jones said the regional event was held every two years, and showcased the cream of Te Arawa waka.
It was an even playing field, he said, with the mainstream schools just as strong as the kura kaupapa.
Twenty-one judges had specific jobs looking at every aspect of kapa haka.
Committee chairwoman Aramoana Mohi-Maxwell said each group brought its own strengths to the event.
"Each group showcased a perspective which was uniquely Maori."
Ms Mohi-Maxwell said the committee was made up of representatives from each of the participating schools.
She said it was great to see the audience ranging from babies to kaumatua.
"Te reo Maori wins, the taiohi [youth] wins. Te reo is the foundation, with students expressing themselves through performing arts. It's been an amazing day."
Hundreds packed out the arena in support of the schools, including Owhata's
Mike Smith.
He was there to support his grandchildren who were in different teams.
Mr Smith said he had watched his grandchildren progress from primary school to secondary school competitions.
"It's really neat to see them develop, and see what they can aspire to ... it's a positive activity."
His grandson, Hohua Smith, led Te Aitanga a Tane.
"He did an awesome job, it was great to see his confidence. He's got good tutors and it's a good team."
Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Te Orini ki Ngati Awa principal Venus Ihakara said 40 primary school pupils, as well as parents and staff, had come from Whakatane to support Te Puku o te Ika.
"There's lots of excitement ... the team have been practising and sacrificing their weekends [leading up to the event]."
Hikawai Te Nahu, 16, was there to support Te Puku o te Ika.
Having performed himself in the past, he had been helping the group as they practised at school.
"They're all feeling the nerves."
