UPDATE - A young protester was arrested today when he tried to stop the car of National Party leader Don Brash as he left Te Tii Waitangi Marae.

The car had driven about 20 metres when the youth threw himself in front of it. He was immediately bundled to the side of the road by two or three police officers.

Several Maori wardens urged the crowd not to gather saying they would be arrested.

The youth was bundled into the back of a police wagon and taken away.

Activist Hinewhare Harawira told NZPA "it was a one man protest - it was very effective but unfortunately he has to suffer the consequences."

Dr Brash had earlier said he would not visit the marae as part of the Waitangi Day commemorations because of a mainstream media ban.

Last year when he visited he was pelted with mud at the front entrance as he left the marae.

This year, Northland MP and colleague John Carter visited the marae before Dr Brash and told NZPA Dr Brash would visit because no media ban existed.

Dr Brash arrived at the main entrance to the marae at about 9.50am and was asked to wait briefly before he headed further down to another entrance with other invited guests.

During a verbal confrontation with one protester, Dr Brash was asked what sort of nation he wanted.

"I want a nation where every child, Maori, Pacific Islander, Asian or European knows his history but also has equal rights under the law."

During a speech at the powhiri Dr Brash said the National Party was committed to the Treaty settlement process and wanted it to conclude to everybody's satisfaction.

He said National looked forward to working towards a united New Zealand with all races.

Dr Brash's speech was interrupted several times.

Dr Brash drew laughter when he thanked Tuhoe activist Tama Iti for translating the speeches for him during the powhiri.

After the speech he was thanked by a song led by Mrs Harawira.

Prior to the speech Dr Brash said he welcomed the opportunity to talk directly rather than through the headlines.

"But I will also make it clear that I think New Zealand has no future as a country unless we are one people under the law."

Speaking to the media outside the marae he said Prime Minister Helen Clark's decision not to visit the marae was hers but it was appropriate for him to accept the invitation.