Waitangi Day is observed on February 6 each year to commemorate the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand’s founding document. In New Zealand, this day is a public holiday unless it happens on a weekend, in which case the Monday that follows becomes a public holiday. To celebrate the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, ceremonies are held at Waitangi and throughout the country.
Waitangi Day is New Zealand’s national holiday, so New Zealanders enjoy a much-needed day off! Though this is a public holiday under New Zealand legislation, it is also a moment to reflect on the controversies surrounding the Treaty of Waitangi and its repercussions on modern society.
The Treaty of Waitangi was first signed on February 6, 1840, between representatives of the British Crown and more than 40 Mori chiefs. By September 1840, 500 Mori leaders had signed copies of the pact, which were distributed around New Zealand.
The Treaty of Waitangi summarises the concepts underpinning the political agreement reached by Mori leaders and British authorities to build a nation-state and establish a government. Because of major variations between the Mori and English language versions of the Treaty, there has been much controversy over the Treaty in terms of land possession, and it has remained a source of contention ever since.
Waitangi Day was first observed in 1934, and the New Zealand Labour Party proposed it as a national holiday in their party manifesto in 1957. Later that year, in 1973, legislation was approved to make this occasion a national public holiday. However, renaming the day New Zealand Day sparked outrage since it appeared to degrade ‘Te Tiriti’. The Waitangi Day Act of 1976 reinstated the original name and made it a public holiday.
Waitangi Day is now observed annually on February 6 throughout New Zealand. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the Treaty of Waitangi was initially signed, is an excellent venue to learn about the Treaty of Waitangi at any time of year.
HOW TO CELEBRATE WAITANGI DAY
Celebrate with the people of New Zealand.
Official Waitangi festivities take place on the Waitangi Treaty grounds and are largely positive, with many events and speeches from government leaders, while it is also a site for protests. If you chance to be in New Zealand at the time, join in the festivities, or celebrate by sharing information with your friends on social media using the #Waitangiday hashtag.
Learn about the past.
This day is steeped in history, beginning with the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi and continuing through the events that followed. You might spend today learning about how this day evolved over time, as well as the celebrations and debates that surrounded it.
Discover the Mori culture.
Immerse yourself in the culture of Mori. Visit any restaurant that serves authentic Mori food and enjoy the distinct flavours. If you’re nervous about trying new cuisine, you can learn about Mori dance and watch kapa haka performances online.
