Hundreds from Ngāti Toa Rangatira and other iwi descended onto Parliament's grounds on Wednesday to protest the Government's Fast Track Bill.
They say similar policies in the past have polluted their land and harmed their community, and they've passed a simple message on to ministers - never again.
There was barely a sound as they left Wellington Railway Station - only the subtle patter of hundreds of footsteps and the occasional echo of a conch.
"We live every single day already with the pollution and the harm created by previous fast track development," said Ngāti Toa Rangatira chief executive Helmut Modlik.
The Fast Track Bill aims to get major projects and developments underway quicker, bypassing red tape and reducing costs.
It also gives three ministers, including Chris Bishop, the unprecedented power to have the final say.
"Our community are here today to say to you ministers and to this Government, 'No, not here, not again.'"
After laying plants on the steps of Parliament, Ngāti Toa tamariki presented the Government with their submissions.
Bishop said he understands the history and concerns.
"I think there's a pathway through here where we land a position - where we get development - but protect the environment at the same time."
