Waitangi Day
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| Image of Constitution Room courtesy of archives.govt.nz |
February 6 marks the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. This historic
event took place in Aotearoa in 1840 when representatives of the British
Crown and over 500 Maori chiefs signed what is today referred to as 'New
Zealand’s founding document' . The day was first officially commemorated in
1934, and it has been a public holiday since 1974.
For some people, Waitangi Day is a holiday; for many, it is the occasion for
reflecting on the Treaty and often highlights injustices which have
prevailed since its signing 169 years ago. Today as a nation, we continue
our journey of looking into the darkness of the past so that the light of
understanding may shine, showing us a way forward not only in this present
time but into the future.
Waitangi Day is recognised as New Zealand's national day . The date is an
important marker in the country's history. Recognition of the significance
of the Treaty of Waitangi as the nation's founding document encourages
leaders, communities and individuals to mark the day in new ways. This year
there are a number of different events and celebrations are happening not
only across Aotearoa New Zealand but the world.
 Waitangi Day 2009
Waitangi Day 2009
What's happening in the world Waitangi Day 2009
Aotearoa
New Zealand
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Australia
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United Kingdom
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Why in the world do we have Waitangi Day anyway?
 Test your knowledge
Contains activities which extend and test your knowledge about the
Treaty.
Treaty Resources
Find resources about Te Tiriti O Waitangi. Many of these resources
are available as simple PDF files.
Find Treaty resources at your local Waitakere City Library
Kimihia nga rauemi mō te Tiriti o Waitangi i roto i Ngā Kākano Mātauranga o
Waitakere
The Treaty Document
A copy of the Treaty of Waitangi is on permanent display in the
Constitution Room at Archives New Zealand and can be viewed online at this
site. Information regarding the background and context within which
the Treaty was signed is included.
Who signed it?
NZ History online site which provides lists of signatories to each of the
nine copies of the Treaty on display in the Constitution Room. Each
list includes tribal affiliations of the signatory (where known) and images
of the original signatories.
Want to
learn more?
Free Treaty courses a mouse click away! Run the TRC, usually at
Manukau Institute of Technology, and facilitated by Christine Herzog
Where in the world will you be for Waitangi
Day?
A Maori television initiative which allows you to
post a message and let your friends and family know where you will be on
Waitangi Day 2009.
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