Followers of the Rātana Movement - and politicians - are heading to the Rangitīkei village of Rātana to celebrate the 150th birthday of the movement’s founder, Tahupōtiki Wiremu Rātana.
Thousands of Mōrehu (followers) are expected to descend upon the small Māori village during the three days of celebration.
But it was New Zealand First Leader Winston Peters who was the first politician out of the gate.
The former deputy Prime Minister made a no-controversy surprise visit to the Pā, where he stood to speak to the people early in the morning with local district government leaders.
Proceedings started today with a kawe mate (remembrance service) with pictures of whānau who have recently passed were walked on by whānau.