The tension in the air at Waitangi is palpable, as people wait to see how the Government and iwi leaders will mix.

Opposition MPs were welcomed yesterday and Labour did not hold back, suggesting the Government was a den of lions - and advocating for Māori rights in speeches.

The Government will be welcomed to Waitangi on Tuesday, with thousands of visitors expected.

Herald Political Reporter Adam Pearse is there, and says the next few days will bring some 'interesting scenes.'

"And we will see and hear, I can imagine, some pretty strong speeches from iwi leaders about where the Government's taking Māori issues." 

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