A local kōhanga reo in Ōtaki has organised a hīkoi to protest against New Zealand joining the controversial Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Organisers says the march will be distinctly bilingual and bicultural with speeches, songs and information in both Te Reo and English.
They claim that under the TPP education services are under threat as multinationals will be able to enter the 'market' to undercut local providers from Kōhanga to Wānanga level.
The Tū Roa Kōhanga Reo protest organisers said if the Government signs the TPP, it is saying it does not care about local communities.
They also claimed that the TPP will allow multinationals to come in and exploit their unique local culture and kaupapa.
"This is another wave of colonisation. The intention of the TPP is to exploit our land and people.
"Those who are vulnerable now will become even more vulnerable. It will become harder to keep land in the hands of those who care about it. Many Ōtaki locals want to voice their concerns about our future, and this is the time to do it."
The hīkoi will start just after 11am today from the gates of Tū Roa Kōhanga Reo in Ōtaki and will end with a rally at the war monument on Main Street.