Politicians will be welcomed on to the upper marae at Waitangi for the first time today.
Traditionally the powhiri and political debate are held at Te Tii Marae on the lower treaty grounds.
The shift comes after years of protests and controversy which left two former prime ministers choosing not to attend the ceremony.
Today's events are taking place at the Treaty Grounds' Whare Runanga.
It's hoped the new location will start a new trend on how the day is viewed, with less fighting and more celebrating.
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