The ASB Polyfest - the largest Maori and Pacific Island cultural festival in the world - starts on Thursday in Manukau.
Waatea News reports 59 schools are lined up, with more than 8500 students performing on five stages.
Event director Tania Karauria, says the festival is still popular after 34 years, and is one of the few events via which young Maori and Pacific people can celebrate their culture through dance and song.
The four day festival is being hosted by Wesley College.
