Waitangi Day

Today, Waitangi Day is celebrated by people throughout the country of New Zealand, particularly in the Bay Islands.

Events here can last for up to three days, including a special opening service takes place at dawn on Waitangi Day at the Treaty Grounds.

Other activities including political speeches, parades, ceremonies, musical performances and so mcuh more. 

History of Waitangi Day

Considered to be the National Day of New Zealand, Waitangi Day commemorates the historical signing of the treaty of Waitangi, which took place on February 6, 1840.

This treaty, the founding document of New Zealand, established a political agreement between the native Māori people and the representatives of the British Crown. 

The purpose of the Waitangi treaty was to ensure a peaceful future for everyone in the places that is now the nation of New Zealand. The Māori people agreed to let other people live on their land, allowing the British to make rules and require people to live by them.

It wasn’t until almost a century later that the initital observance of New Zealand’s Waitagi Day took place, in 1934. It was on this day that a special gathering (hui) took place at the site of the original signing of the treaty in the Bay Islands, initiated by New Zealand’s then Governor-General, Lord Bledisloe.

The hope was that the Treaty House, the site of the original signing would become a national monument and a memorial to the relationship between the colonizing people with the native Māori.  

How to Celebrate Waitangi Day

There are lots of ways to get involved with Waitangi Day so get creative – or start with some of these:

Attend Waitangi Day Events

One excellent way to get involved with Waitangi Day is to head to New Zealand for a visit during this special time.

Stop by the Bay Islands for a visit to the original site in Waitangi site, taking part in the various local celebratory activities.

Some might include different cultural aspects of the Māori people, such as dances, foods and waka canoe races. 

Gather with Friends and Family

Many people throughout New Zealand take Waitangi Day as an opportunity to celebrate their country and their land.

Host a gathering with friends and family members, including food and exciting festivities. 
Learn About Māori Culture 

One excellent way to show appreciation for Waitangi Day is to pay some honor and respect to the culture and background of the native people group who signed the treaty, the Māori.

Learn a bit more about this people group and their practices by doing some research at the library or online. Get started with some of these facts: 

• The first humans to occupy what is now New Zealand, the Māori people settled there approximately 1200 years ago 
• The name of “Māori” means ‘ordinary people’ in the tribal language 
• Māori people were known to be skilled artists, mastering the art of weaving as well as carving detailed wooden war canoes
• Tattoos are a significant part of the Māori culture, uniquely reflecting a person’s ancestry and family history