as Ratana faithful arrive for 150th celebrations
Followers of the Rātana Movement - and politicians - are heading to the Rangitikei village of Ratana to celebrate the 150th birthday of the movement’s founder, Tahupōtiki Wiremu Rātana.
Thousands of Mōrehu (followers) are expected to descend upon the small Māori village during the three days of celebration.
But it was New Zealand First Leader Winston Peters who was the first politician out of the gate.
The former deputy Prime Minister, made a no controversy surprise visit to the Pā, where he stood to speak to the people early in the morning with local district government leaders.
Link to article: Winston Peters takes centre stage as Ratana faithful arrive for 150th celebrations - NZ Herald
