Koroua, kuia and cousins alike will mark the start of the koroneihana this morning with aerobics and zumba at Tūrangawaewae marae.
Photo: AFP
They'll be among the thousands that will turn out in Ngāruawāhia this week to celebrate the ninth anniversary of the coronation of Kīngi Tūheitia.
Organisers expect the biggest crowds today and tomorrow, as tributes are paid to kawe mate, or those who have died in the past year.
They include Māoridom stalwarts, Api Mahuika, Tama Huata and Erima Henare, to name a few.
Throughout the week iwi members will take part in kapa haka performances, sports competitions and other festivities in one of the key events on the Māori calendar.
A Waikato-Tainui leader, Rahui Papa, said it's a celebration of the ongoing commitment of the kīngatanga to this land.
He said the event provides a chance for rangatahi or youth to join with the kaumātua for debates and discussions on the marae.
Rahui Papa says the event also provides the opportunity to mourn the loss of those who have died in the past year.
Kīngi Tūheitia will give his speech tomorrow.
