Every February, Kiwis come together to commemorate one of the most important chapters in Aotearoa’s history: Waitangi Day. This annual national holiday marks the first signing of the nation’s founding document: Te Tiriti o Waitangi, The Treaty of Waitangi. For many, it’s a time to journey back and reflect on the country’s profound past as well as push for a better future.
When is Waitangi Day celebrated?
The Treaty, which was first signed on 6 February 1840 by representatives of the British Crown and more than 40 rangatira (chiefs), lays the foundation of modern Aotearoa. By September of that year, more than 500 Māori leaders had signed the document establishing a partnership between Māori and the Crown.
The first official celebration of Waitangi Day began much later, when in 1934, Lord and Lady Bledisloe gifted the 506-hectare Waitangi Estate they had purchased a couple of years ago, to the people New Zealand. More than 10,000 Māori from across the country attended the special hui (gathering) held at Te Tii Marae and Waitangi. However, it wasn’t until 1974 that Waitangi Day was officially declared as a national public holiday, solidifying its place in New Zealand history.
Unlocking the past: why is Waitangi Day celebrated?
Waitangi Day is more than just a public holiday. It serves both as a mirror and a window; it’s a day to honour Aotearoa’s founding partnership as well as reflect on how far we’ve come and address the challenges.
The Treaty’s varied interpretations are well-known and spoken about, sparking many debates over the years, and Waitangi Day is a reminder of the commitment made to address past grievances while also celebrating Māori culture and heritage and the contributions made to New Zealand society.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Today, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands is at the heart of the annual celebration. The grounds host a free festival for New Zealand residents. The day begins at 5am with a dawn service in Te Whare Rūnanga, followed by cultural performances, activities, and market stalls. Visitors can also explore the Treaty House, a carved Māori meeting house (Te Whare Rūnanga), and the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe (Ngātokimatawhaorua).
Quick facts about Waitangi Day
- Lord and Lady Bledisloe gifted the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to the people of New Zealand in 1932
- Waitangi Day became a national public holiday in 1974
- More than 500 rangatira signed the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840
- On Waitangi Day, entry to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds is free for all New Zealand residents
Heading to the Treaty Grounds this Waitangi Day? Here are the best holiday homes in the Bay of Plenty.
Photo: Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Credits: W. Bulach | Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
