The official opening of the Pasifika Festival was postponed by the Auckland mayor until Prime Minister John Key arrived around midday.
Organisers told Labour MP Carmel Sepuloni that the mayor, John Banks, wanted to wait for Mr Key, saying there were not enough people for the ceremony.
Labour leader Phil Goff was surprised at the decision as his team was ready and waiting.
Thousands of people are at Western Springs Park, where a wide range of Pacific culture is on show, from traditional food and music to hip-hop and rap.
Mr Key is expected to tour the festival with at least five Government MPs.
Pacific Island Affairs Minister Georgina Te Heu Heu says Pasifika is crucial to developing confidence in a section of the community with growing importance.
