Police have been reminded by the Waitangi marae that Maori wardens are the main group to patrol the pa.
Te Tii Marae in the Bay of Islands is preparing for the annual Waitangi celebrations on Wednesday and expects about 2000 visitors, including politicians.
A spokesperson for Te Tii Marae, Kingi Taurua, says the marae has spoken to the police as part of its preparations.
He says they've been reminded they do not have authority there.
Mr Taurua says the authority lies with the Maori wardens and police have been told that if there are any problems they'll only be needed as a last resort.
Mr Taurua says the marae operates under Maori kawa (lore) and Maori wardens have long been part of policing the pa by those principles.
