"What I want to be able to do is establish a much more regular and stronger relationship with the Ratana people."
Mr Tirikatene was expecting Labour to get a good reception. The party had done well in the Maori electorates at the election, reducing the Maori Party majorities and taking back Te Tai Tonga - Mr Tirikatene's seat.
"For us, it's starting the relationship again with our new leadership, so we want to go to honour the day and start the new year off with some good relationships we want to rebuild. And I can play a key role in the Ratana relationship."
However, he said debate was part of the marae and it was possible speakers aligned with other parties could use the day to make a point.
The occasion also has a personal side for Mr Tirikatene. He will walk alongside the immediate family of his aunt Whetu Tirikatene-Sullivan, ONZ, the former Labour Cabinet minister who died last July.
He said the whanau were attending for a kawe mate - a ceremony "taking on the memory" of Mrs Tirikatene-Sullivan, who was born and grew up at Ratana Pa.
In the past, Labour has faced some tough challenges at Ratana. In 2010, Ratana speakers challenged then party leader Phil Goff not to take the movement for granted. In 2011, he was more warmly welcomed.
About 17 MPs are also expected from National. They will be welcomed on to the marae in the afternoon, after Labour. They include Prime Minister John Key and ministers Hekia Parata and Chris Finlayson.
Several Green MPs are also expected and NZ First leader Winston Peters will visit tomorrow - the actual date of the birthday.
Mr Key will walk on to the marae alongside Maori Party co-leader Pita Sharples, as he has several times since National and the Maori Party went into Government together. Dr Sharples' fellow co-leader, Tariana Turia, who is a Ratana follower, sits with the hosts.
A spokeswoman said Mr Key would speak off the cuff but was likely to talk about the relationship with Ratana and Maori.
She said it was important to pay respect to the event.
