Politicians are at Rātana Pā in Whanganui for the annual celebrations commemorating the church's founder.
Typically considered the first main event on the year's political calendar, the Rātana celebrations this year carry the mauri of the Hui aa Motu called by the Kiingitanga.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has said he is expecting to be challenged at the event.
All parties in Parliament other than ACT are attending.
See how the day unfolded with RNZ's blog: