Prime Minister John Key welcomed to Te Tii Marae

Prime Minister John Key was welcomed with out incident to Te Tii Marae today. PHOTO/John Stone

Prime Minister John Key and Government ministers have been welcomed on to Te Tii Marae without incident.

Mr Key was escorted on by Titewhai Harawira. Finance Minister Bill English, Te Ururoa Flavell and Mr Key all accepted challenges laid down by the warriors in the powhiri.

Before today's visit Mr Key said he expected a "rough" reception at Waitangi this year as he walks into a hotbed of issues. Mr Key today made his ninth annual visit to Te Tii Marae.

There was no trouble other than a small group of protesters against the Trans Pacific Partnership and some calls about sovereignty.

Mr Key has said he would deliver a largely positive message while on the marae.

Labour leader Andrew Little and opposition MPs will be welcomed on today.

Mr Key will head to meet with the Iwi Chairs Forum this afternoon, where an agreement over fresh water rights is expected to be discussed.

Tomorrow he will attend other Waitangi Day events at Waitangi