Prime Minister John Key says he will promote the merits of the TPP free trade agreement on the lower marae at Waitangi and that overall it was an important debate for his Government to win.
"The opportunities that come from a trade deal like TPP are at the core of what we are about as a Government, which is international connectedness and greater opportunities for our people," he told the Herald last night.
Mr Key will head to Waitangi on February 5, the day after the 12-country trade deal is signed in Auckland, with protests promised by opponents, including Auckland University law professor Jane Kelsey, who believes it will severely reduce New Zealand's sovereignty.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Trade Minister Todd McClay will also embark on roadshows for the public - which are almost certain to attract protests.
But Mr Key believes most people have a limited understanding of the deal.