If your workmates seem to be starting their Labour weekend early, it could be because they're Maniapoto.
The King Country iwi starts a six-day festival in Te Kuiti on Tuesday.
Te Kawau Maro o Maniapoto chair Taonui Campbell says the programme includes wananga, sporting contests, tree planting, kapa haka, a hikoi round the marae in the rohe and a kaumatua ball.
He told Waatea News the festival, now in its 16th year, is a positive way to bring iwi members back home, instead of for a sad occasion.
For those Maniapoto unable to make it to Te Kuiti for the festival, some events will be streamed online at the tribe's website.
