PM's Waitangi absence explained

Prime Minister Helen Clark watches the waka canoes from aboard Te Aurere this morning during the Waitangi Day celebrations. Sandra Mu / Getty Images

Parekura Horomia is downplaying the Prime Minister's decision not to attend official Waitangi Day celebrations.

Helen Clark was conspicuously absent from the dawn ceremony this morning, unlike National leader Don Brash.

The Maori Affairs Minister said Helen Clark has always celebrated the day in Waitangi, despite previous incidents.

He said the PM has been at Waitangi consistently for a long time, not just in an election year like some others trying to put their brand on the place.

Mr Horomia said so far this year the day has gone smoothly, suggesting the mood of the celebration is changing.

- NEWSTALK ZB