National day
On 6 February, New Zealand marks the anniversary of the first signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, with ceremonies at Waitangi, cultural performances and a day for reflecting on the country’s history.
6 February each year
At the Treaty Grounds in Waitangi, in the Bay of Islands, and at marae and events across New Zealand.
Watch kapa haka and waka in the harbour, visit an open marae or learn about the Treaty.
Te Rā o Waitangi: Waitangi Day
Waitangi Day, Te Rā o Waitangi in Māori, is New Zealand’s national day. It marks the anniversary of the first signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, on 6 February 1840 at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands. The Treaty was an agreement between representatives of the British Crown and Māori chiefs. About 45 chiefs signed on the first day, and around 540 eventually signed as copies travelled around the country. Many people regard it as the founding document of the nation, and its meaning and the way it has been honoured are still discussed today.
The first Waitangi Day was held in 1934, when the Treaty House and grounds were dedicated as a public reserve. It became a nationwide public holiday in 1974. When 6 February falls on a weekend, the holiday moves to the following Monday.
The main ceremonies take place at the Treaty Grounds in Waitangi. The day traditionally begins with a dawn service, and political leaders have served a barbecue breakfast to the public afterwards. Throughout the day there is kapa haka, Māori performing arts, along with discussions and entertainment, while waka, traditional canoes, and sometimes a navy ship take part in demonstrations in the harbour. The day ends as the flags are lowered by the navy in a traditional ceremony. Elsewhere, some marae hold open days so that local communities can experience Māori culture and protocol, and there are festivals, citizenship ceremonies and family gatherings. Waitangi Day has also been a focus for protest and debate, and for many people it is a day to reflect on history as well as to celebrate. Experiences of the day vary widely.
Mark Waitangi Day at home:
Coming soon to the App Store.
The Treaty Grounds are busy on Waitangi Day, so plan transport and arrive early. If you visit a marae open day, follow your hosts’ guidance and listen quietly during formal speeches. Many shops and services keep public holiday hours.
The first signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between the British Crown and Māori chiefs on 6 February 1840.
Yes, since 1974. If 6 February falls on a weekend, the holiday is observed on the following Monday.
A dawn service, kapa haka performances, waka demonstrations in the harbour and a flag-lowering ceremony at the end of the day.
