The new year is taken by storm with the Ngāti Tūwharetoa Pā Wars. Reporter Taroi Black caught up with excited participants involved across the 15 sporting events.
The rain didn't dampen the spirits of these fierce competitors, as they represented 20 marae throughout the event.
The annual event is currently celebrating its 12th year, and it's believed to have even more supporters this year.
The winner of this two-day event is determined by marae participation. Defending champions Korohe is hoping to make it five in a row.
The competition saw the return of Jackson Owens from the States, a musician who's a lead singer for Californian boy band, Far Young.
This event unites the people and is definitely an overall win for Tūwharetoa.