The Māori Development Minister is defending the Prime Minister's decision to skip a gathering organised by the Māori King.

The National Unity Hui is expected to bring thousands of people to Ngāruawāhia's Tūrangawaewae Marae tomorrow.

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka told Tim Dower that it's his responsibility to go, but it's not a platform for politicians.

He says it's primarily for those interested in the direction of the country to come together.

ACT Party leader Davis Seymour has also said he won't be attending.

LISTEN ABOVE

The Māori Development Minister is defending the Prime Minister's decision to skip a gathering organised by the Māori King. 
The National Unity Hui is expected to bring thousands of people to Ngāruawāhia's Tūrangawaewae Marae tomorrow. 
Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka told Tim Dower that it's his responsibility to go, but it's not a platform for politicians. 
He says it's primarily for those interested in the direction of the country to come together. 
ACT Party leader Davis Seymour has also said he won't be attending. 
LISTEN ABOVE

Don't miss a thing while you're on holiday, with Newstalk ZB Holiday Breakfast. We deliver the best in news, views and opinion to keep Kiwis informed and entertained while you're on the road, at the bach, or relaxing at home.

Don't miss a thing while you're on holiday, with Newstalk ZB Holiday Breakfast. We deliver the best in news, views and opinion to keep Kiwis informed and entertained while you're on the road, at the bach, or relaxing at home.

Don't miss a thing while you're on holiday, with Tim Dower and Newstalk ZB Holiday Breakfast.

Holiday Breakfast

Don't miss a thing while you're on holiday, with Tim Dower and Newstalk ZB Holiday Breakfast. Tim delivers the best in news, views and opinion to keep Kiwis informed and entertained while you're on the road, at the bach, or relaxing at home.