Labour leader David Cunliffe has been welcomed on to Ratana Pa for the first time as the party leader - the third the church followers have been faced with welcoming in the past four years.
Before being welcomed on to the marae, Mr Cunliffe said he believed Labour's long links with the movement were moving on to a new generation - Labour has selected Adrian Rurawhe, the grandchild of the movement's founder, prophet Tahupotiki Wiremu Ratana, as its candidate in Te Tai Hauauru.
Mr Cunliffe was hopeful that selection, as well as the retirement of Maori Party co-leader Tariana Turia, would mean Labour would reclaim the seat.
Prime Minister John Key was welcomed onto the marae on his eighth visit as National leader later in the day.
Ratana speakers from the paepae raised issues such as job opportunities and lack of affordable housing.