Mr O'Keefe said the starting point for what be believed would be about 100 walkers was significant as Waipatu was the venue of the first meeting staged by the Maori Parliament in 1892.
"This is all about celebrating who we are," Mr O'Keefe said, adding that the weather would not be an issue.
"Rain, hail or snow - we will be pressing on."
On arrival at Farndon Park there will be a stirring official welcome from students of Te Aute College.
The welcome will also feature local dignitaries and kaumatua.
As part of the official activities there will be a signing of the Treaty of Peace and Harmony.
The day will feature a water pageant and waka rides, as well as rides and activities for children and entertainment from locals Bert Hura, Kem Wairau, Michael Savage and Ni Keefe.
A Michael Jackson talent quest for youngsters 10 and under will be staged at 1pm.
"A lot of things for the children because they are the ones who will be taking this into the future," Mr O'Keefe said.
Waitangi Day will also be celebrated in a big and diverse way at the Hawke's Bay Sports Park in Hastings with the Big 9 celebrations.
Organisers for the day are expecting several thousand people to attend an event they say is designed to feature "something for everyone".
The event, which is free to attend, has been funded by Ngati Kahungunu Iwi, the Hastings District Council, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, Te Puni Kokiri and Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga.
It will feature nine food, sports, music and art events.
"What better way to experience the soul of a region that through its food," a spokesperson said of the array of New Zealand and international "kai" which will be on offer.
A multi-cultural concert from 10am will feature everything from kapa haka to Scottish dancing, hip-hop, country and even belly dancing.
Sporting codes have organised volleyball, touch, basketball, netball, hockey and Ki Orahi tournaments during the morning and, to keep the little ones amused, bouncy castles and rides on slides will be available.
Rising star Sammy Johnson will take the stage at 2.45pm with a fusion of reggae and hip-hop - and before going on would happily be available at 1.45pm for selfies under the paua inflatable archway.
MTG Hawke's Bay will commemorate the day with a special screening of the film Canvassing the Treaty at 2pm, with admission free.
The documentary follows the story of six New Zealand artists, including Hawke's Bay's Chris Bryant-Toi, who learn about the Treaty of Waitangi along with the country's history and relationships from Moana Jackson and Ingrid Huygens.
