Stan Walker performing at Te Matatini Friday. Photo: Kiriana Eparaima-Hautapu / Supplied Te Matatini
Despite the rain at Ngā Ana Wai/Eden Park, thousands of kapa haka fans have turned out to support their favourite teams on day three of Te Matatini as the top 12 finalists have been announced.
Over the last three days, 45 groups, divided into three pools have given it their all and now the top four groups from each pool get a second chance to impress the judges.
Those 12 groups are.
1. Whāngāra mai Tawhiti
2. Te Kapa Haka o Ngāti Whakaue
3. Te Pikikōtuku o Ngāti Rongomai
4. Angitū
5. Te Pou o Mangatawhiri
6. Ngāti Rangiwewehi
7. Ngā Tumanako
8. Te Hekenga ā Rangi
9. Te Iti Kahurangi
10. Te Mātārae i Ōrehu
11. Waihīrere
12. Te Kapa Haka Te Whānau a Apanui
The announcement came after an hour-long delay which held up the final two groups of day three.
But the fans in attendance were treated to an impromptu concert, and when normal proceedings resumed their singing cleared the rain away.
Some were here waiting for the gates to open at 7am to secure a spot in front of the stage and take in the beautiful spectacle of another day of haka.
Thousands of kapa haka fans turned out at Eden Park to cheer on events at Te Matatini. Photo: RNZ / Pokere Paewai
The single most anticipated performer of the day was Stan Walker who stood alongside Te Reanga Morehu o Ratana.
He delivered a beautiful solo in the choral, proving not only can he sing, but he can haka as well.
Thousands of kapa haka fans turned out at Eden Park to cheer on events at Te Matatini despite the rain. Photo: RNZ / Pokere Paewai
There were plenty of strong performances from teams looking to state their claim for a place in the top 12 who will perform again on Saturday.
Thousands of kapa haka fans turned out at Eden Park to cheer on events at Te Matatini despite the rain. Photo: RNZ / Pokere Paiwai
Tomorrow the top 12 will perform one more time, competing to be crowned Toa Whakaihuwaka, the winners of Te Matatini 2023.
