Labour’s set be tested on its commitment to Maoridom today, when new leader Andrew Little leads a delegation into the lion’s den at Waitangi.

Labour now holds six of the seven Maori electorates, including the local seat of Te Tai Tokerau – which saw local icon Hone Harawira ousted from Parliament.

Andrew Little could get a hard time for that, but he’s ready for whatever comes his way.

"The day before Waitangi Day itself is always an occasion to debate and discuss," he says.

"Sometimes that's forthright and that's good, that's the spirit of the Treaty."

"I'm looking forward to getting up there and doing my bit as the leader of the Labour Party."