The crowd is being led by kairākau - men with rākau - and was this morning making its way along Petone esplanade toward State Highway 2.
There have been karakia, waiata and haka ringing out. An RNZ reporter says it's a positive vibe, and marshalls are doing their best to keep people to footpaths.
Participants are flying tino rangatiratanga flags, as cars supporting the hīkoi drive slowly alongside.
Māori Queen Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po will join the hīkoi's final stage to Parliament, where tens of thousands are expected to congregate.
Superintendent Corrie Parnell told Morning Report police were expecting more than 10,000 people today, but were prepared for a larger turnout.
About 50 people carrying flags have set themselves up on Parliament's front lawn ahead of the hīkoi's arrival.
Green barriers have been set up on the forecourt to keep protesters away from the front steps.
Māori wardens are moving around the site and at the train station, where many people carrying flags are arriving.
Wellingtonians are being advised to work from home today or allow up to two hours extra travel time for their commute.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is considering his options to engage with the hīkoi when it arrives at Parliament. A spokesperson said a small delegation of National MPs will be available to meet the hīkoi.
The Treaty Principles Bill architect, Act leader David Seymour, says he supports the right to protest, but thinks participants are misguided and have a range of different grievances.
