Ngati Maniapoto are celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Kingitanga with a monument on the site of the marae where the iwi first mandated the Maori king.
Organising committee chairman Nick Tuwhangai says proceedings start on Tuesday with Kawe mate and a flagpole unveiling at Rereamanu Marae in Otorohanga.
He says recognising the spot where the first Maori king, Potatau, was anointed is especially significant for the iwi.
King Tuheitia is due to arrive on Wednesday.
Waatea News reports the iwi recently discovered a long-dormant site where Haurua Marae stood, on the boundary between Otorohanga and Waitomo.
