Hokonui's Under 18 marching team have made Southland history at the weekend (13-15 Mar), becoming the first team in living memory to win three consecutive national titles.

Hokonui U18 marching team are named New Zealand Champions in Invercargill on Saturday. Photo: Sheree Hall/Supplied

And not to be outdone, Hokonui's Under 13 marching team picked up their second consecutive national championship title, while Southland's Southern Stars Under 13 team placed 3rd in their technical drill.

Held at Stadium Southland, the championships attracted thirty-seven teams, an estimated 600 competitors, coaches and supporters, from throughout New Zealand,

Marching Southland publicity officer Sheree Hall attributed Hokonui U18 team's success to just pure dedication, hard work and the hunger.

"They wanted it. They wanted it so bad," Hall said.

"I think having the ability to march together for quite a number of years helps to build a team."

Hall also attributed the team's success to coaches Tracy McDonald and Renee Morgan.

Hokonui U13 marching team receive their second consecutive New Zealand title in Invercargill last Saturday. Photo: Sheree Hall/Supplied

Hall said the popularity of marching in Southland was back on the rise.

"I think after hosting a national event down here, it's going to hopefully inspire us more young marchers to join."

Hall said marching provided a beautiful team environment where members can strive to succeed and set goals every year."

"[Also] having the ability to build relationships and friendships that last a lifetime, along with being able to travel, all play a factor into the attractive and all play a factor into the attractiveness of marching."

CLICK HERE to learn more about marching in Southland.