A CROWD estimated at 5000 was on site at the Parihaka International Peace Festival last night. Mainstage honours went to Fat Freddys Drop, who appeared reluctant to vacate the stage, thrilling the crowd with a 90-minute set. They were followed by Pacific Reggae pioneers, Herbs, making their festival debut, whose hour-long performance led to a crowd singalong as the band delivered one familiar song after another from their 30-year old career.

TODAY'S performers include Moana & The Tribe, SJD, King Kapisi, Tike Taane, the Bellbirds and Australian band Kingfisha.

THE annual event has again earned the respect of the emergency services, with no reported incidents to police and only minor injuries treated by medical staff.

A TWELVE-HOUR one-day pass is available today, priced at $100. At 12pm tomorrow the price of entry drops to $80 for the duration of the festival, which finishes in the early hours of Monday morning. Sunday's performers include Australia's Kooii, the Hot Grits and Smashproof.