The Māori party says the National Party's change of heart on the Māori seats is disingenuous and desperate.
National has announced it will "work towards" standing candidates in the Māori electorates in 2023.
It hasn't stood in the seats since 2002 - and even held the stance of abolishing them altogether under the leadership of Don Brash.
Leader Judith Collins says National has been absent for too long and should be looking to represent all New Zealanders.
But Māori Party co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer told political reporter Yvette McCullough this seems like hollow politiking.