Final preparations are underway at ASB Baypark before thousands gather for one of the biggest kapa haka competitions in the North Island tomorrow.

The Whakataetae Kapahaka o Mataatua is a regional competition bringing together the best performers from Tauranga Moana, Te Whakatohea, Te Whanau a Apanui, Ngai Tuhoe, Ngati Awa and Ngai Tai.

Checking the sound ahead of the regional competition tomorrow.

These teams are competing for the right to represent Mataatua Waka at the Te Matatini National Competition.

Event organiser Jack Thatcher says things are hectic at the moment as the final touches are put in place.

'My group arrived last night and we're down at the venue this morning doing a sound check.”

Jack says 20 teams are coming together to compete at ASB Baypark Stadium. Between 6000 and 9000 people are expected at the event.