Māori Party co-leader, Tariana Turia, won't be attending the pōwhiri at Te Tii Marae this year, saying the last time she attended with the Labour Party, she and her collegues were physically pushed around.
Waitangi has long been the platform for protest and debate.
This year, the water issue will be one of many heated debates on the agenda, with the sale of two state owned assets looming and both Māori and the Crown tied up in court.
Despite this, the co-leader of the Māori Party is adamant she will not be attending.
Turia spoke to Radio Live this morning about her decision.
Reporter: Mihingarangi Forbes