An anti-racism hikoi in New Plymouth is reaching its end today, but Mayor Andrew Judd hopes it sparks a nationwide conversation about Māori Pākehā relations.

Hundreds participated in the three day march, which was organised to show support for Mr Judd after he announced he wouldn’t be standing for the mayoralty again due to the abuse he received for championing Māori issues.

Mr Judd believes Pākehā have an inherent privilege and need to understand that if Aotearoa is to become a more harmonious society.

"If we don't, we'll always have what we’ve always had, which is something that's not working,” says Mr Judd.

“I know that because a simple question was put to my community around inclusiveness and got a reaction that was telling of who and where we're at as a country.

“That has to change and it needs to be done in a respectful, peaceful tolerant way."

Since he announced he would not be seeking re-election Mr Judd has been inundated with support from around the country.