Prime Minister John Key has signalled he wants to see a resolution to the Foreshore and Seabed debate, saying there is no room for separatism in New Zealand.
Addressing the party's lower North Island regional conference in Masterton on Sunday, Mr Key said he is optimistic about the future of race relations in this country.
He told delegates that having issues like the foreshore and seabed hanging over the country's head, isn't constructive.
Mr Key says he wants to lead New Zealand down a path where the issues are settled and the country can look forward to moving together, although he admitted this would not sit well with everyone.
He says lifting Maori achievement and aspiration is important, because it benefits all New Zealanders.