nileflow network

On the public holiday of 6th February each year, New Zealanders of all ethnic backgrounds and creeds gather to commemorate the first signing of the Treaty at Waitangi in 1840

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds, overlooking the Bay of Islands, is New Zealand's pre-eminent historic site.

It was here on February 6th, 1840, that the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed between Maori and the British Crown.


Waitangi Day is a generally optimistic focus for debate on national identity and multiculturalism in New Zealand, and at the Treaty Grounds a peaceful family-oriented celebration prevails.

Maori elder Kingi Tauorua says Waitangi, for him and many other Maori is a way of remembering those who signed the treaty.

The treaty has been a hot topic in New Zealand politics for years. One is written in English and the other in Maori. Supposedly identical. However this is where the problem leys. Maori believe that their version of the treaty entrenches their rightful place as guardians of Aotearoa and Pakeha as simply looking after the land so to speak.

As recent as October Last year we’ve seen the significance the treaty can play on local issues. Since creating the super city Maori seats on the board have been stripped, creating a fierce debate within Auckland.  Ethnic groups have rallied behind the Maori party and local iwi because they felt it was a matter of principal that Maori play a significant role in Auckland’s future. 

King see’s this as a positive step towards a healthy relationship between Maori and Ethnic communities.

Many who we spoke to on the day felt Maori had much to resolve, but Ethnic communities shouldn’t wait idly by and so we ask

What does the treaty of Waitangi mean to you?