The Maori Party says it's asserting its independence by arriving at Ratana Pa two days later than the National Party.
Prime Minister John Key and 20 of his ministers and MPs arrived on Friday afternoon at the annual four-day event, which celebrates the birthday of the church's founder, Tahupotiki Wiremu Ratana.
In an unusual move, however, Labour Party and Maori Party representatives will not arrive until Sunday.
Maori Party co-leader Tariana Turia says her party is an independent political movement and will go to more events in its own right.
Labour leader Phil Goff says Sunday was chosen as it's more central to the festivities, being the day before the prophet's birthday.
The event traditionally marks the start of the political year.
