WATCH: Fierce Angitu kapa haka performance wins Tāmaki Makaurau regionals

Popular kapa haka group Angitu has taken out the top spot at the Tāmaki Makaurau regional competition held at Spark Arena over the weekend - and honestly, by looking at their performance, it’s pretty easy to see why.

The win means the rōpū has officially qualified for next year’s Te Matatini in Hopuhopu, Waikato, marking the third time they’ve made it to the national stage.

Out of the 22 teams competing across the two-day event, Angitu managed to stand out with a performance that felt incredibly strong.

Their whakaeke (entrance) alone, proved they were locked in for the win. The sheer volume and intensity would’ve been enough to grab anyone's attention, but it was the way the wāhine fiercely incorporated their kākahu (clothing) into the choreography that took it to another level.

The rōpū followed up with a powerful haka. The movement was sharp, perfectly in sync and packed with serious mana. Every stomp and action hit right on beat - the style and pace was captivating.

Tāmaki Makaurau is home to some of the biggest names in kapa haka, including former national champions Ngā Tūmanako, Te Waka Huia and Te Rōpū Manutaki, who all also secured spots at Te Matatini after placing second, third and fourth.

With six qualifying spots available, the final two went to Te Taha Tū and Te Poho o Hinekahukura.

Angitu’s already pretty iconic in the haka scene, especially when it comes to welcoming massive international celebs to Aotearoa.

Back in 2022, the group went viral after performing a stunning te reo Māori rendition of 'Easy On Me' by Adele, featuring an unreal solo from Awatea Wihongi.

Then in 2023, they welcomed Harry Styles to Aotearoa ahead of his ‘Love On Tour’ shows in Tāmaki Makaurau with a powerful haka performance.

They even got the 'Apperture' singer to attempt his own pukana.

This rōpū is absolutely gonna be one to watch at the national Te Matatini competition next year.