Waitangi Day - February 6th (New Zealand)

Waitangi Day is the national day of New Zealand, celebrated on 6 February each year to commemorate the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on that date in 1840. The Treaty was signed at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands by representatives of the British Crown and various Māori chiefs.

The Treaty of Waitangi

The Treaty of Waitangi is a foundational document in the history of New Zealand. It established British governance in New Zealand and guaranteed certain rights to the Māori people. However, the interpretation and application of the Treaty have been subjects of much debate and have played a significant role in shaping the relationship between Māori and the Crown.

Commemorations and Discussions

Waitangi Day is a public holiday in New Zealand. Celebrations and commemorations are held across the country, with the main events taking place at Waitangi. These often include cultural performances, speeches, and discussions about the Treaty's ongoing relevance and its role in New Zealand's future. The day is also an opportunity for reflection on the history and the relationship between different cultures in New Zealand.

Learn More About Waitangi Day:

• Wikipedia: Waitangi Day
• Wikipedia: Treaty of Waitangi