Photo: RNZ / Pokere Paewai
Analysis - Whether it was the prime minister's absence, the demise of the Treaty Principles Bill, or the coming election, rhetoric at RΔtana was cooler this year.
The weather was out to match, with thunder and heavy rain pouring down on what had been a sunny day before the politicians spoke.
The annual event sees political parties, other than ACT, make an appearance at the small settlement south of Whanganui in a pilgrimage to honour the birthday of the church's founder TahupΕtiki Wiremu RΔtana, who was known for his political mission as well as his spiritual one.
The past four years have led to fiery exchanges.
In 2023, Jacinda Ardern had just announced her resignation and Christopher Luxon wa
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