Climate change and industry impact on the Whanganui river were concerns raised as Whanganui iwi marked the anniversary of their 1995 occupation of Pakaitore/Moutoa Gardens with two days of festivities.
It was 21 years ago yesterday (February 28) when iwi walked on to the land and set up camp for 79 days.
Yesterday's festivities included music, food, a muay thai display, stalls as people basked in or took shelter from the sun.
Jay Rerekura, who is on the Pakaitore organising committee, said the Saturday was a day of reflection for Whanganui iwi.
"We sat around and had a bunch of discussions about the issues that affect us as an iwi and how we might move forward," he said.