A judge for Nga Whakataetae Manu Korero, Jarred Boon, says the national speech competition is a platform for future Maori leaders.
Thursday is the second day of speeches at the Mystery Creek Event Centre in Hamilton where more than 1000 people have gathered.
A total of 50 students compete in junior and senior level English and Maori categories.
Judges include past winners and speakers, actor Rawiri Paratene, broadcaster Julian Wilcox, Labour MP Nanaia Mahuta and Maori lecturer Jarred Boon, who is judging the junior english Sir Turi Carroll section.
He says the speech process prepares students for the wider world, and the topics selected give them a brief insight in to the trials and tribulations of Maori society and Maori youth.
Jarred Boon says the students are speaking from the heart about how they can address those challenges.
The winners will be announced on Thursday evening.
