Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has confirmed he won't be going to the Hui ā Motu/National Hui in Ngāruawāhia this weekend.
He's currently in Ōtautahi/Christchurch with other National MPs for the party's caucus retreat.
"We are there to engage but the politicians are not front and centre of the hui, let's be really clear about that," Luxon told reporters on Thursday.
Instead, ministers Tama Potaka and Dan Bidois will be the Government's representatives.
"I've got to know the Māori King through a number of engagements and the last commitment I'd had with him was I'd love to catch up.
"We were doing that very informally and we'd set that in place last year."
Luxon and Māori Development Minister Potaka have already met with Kiingi Tuheitia - the Māori King - on Monday, the PM's office said.
"It was good to have a broader conversation than just the hui on Saturday," said Luxon.
The Prime Minister's confirmation comes two days ahead of the event, hosted by the Kiingitanga at Tūrangawaewae Marae.
Preparations were well underway on Thursday, with chairs, tables and marquees being set up.
It's anticipated thousands will attend on Saturday.
Those attending will come up with a response to the Government's policies on Māori affairs - particularly te reo Māori and Te Tiriti (The Treaty).
Whanganui iwi leader Ken Mair told Newshub on Wednesday he was excited for the hui.
"It's a fantastic opportunity for our people to highlight and articulate their major concerns around what this new Government is doing," he said.
"I'm optimistic."
