The text book explanation is that the purpose of Waitangi Day is to commemorate the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, in 1840.
Every year hundreds of people head to Waitangi to celebrate this day… there are traditional maori performances and waka, kids rides and entertainment, a market and a 21-gun salute. This is coupled with the usual protests, mud-throwing and abuse of political figures…
For those of us who what to join in the New Zealand festivities… here's what's on in Auckland tomorrow, so you can make the most of the day with your friends and family:
- There is a free family day at Barry Curtis Park in Flat Bush - free kids rides and some well-known NZ bands, including Aaradhna and David Dallas… click here for more information.
- There is a free reggae concert at Bastion Point in Orakei - featuring Katchafire and House of Shem along with a number of other grassroots bands… click here for more information.
- The Muriwai Waitangi Day Festival is on… $20 Adults (kids under 12 free). A number of NZ bands will be playing here as well, including Tiki Taane… click here for more information.
- Music in Parks is on at Henderson Park, Henderson. Another free concert, this time featuring Kora… click here for more information.
- Browns Bay on the North Shore is having a Waitangi Day Craft Market.
- Head down to Takapuna Beach at 1pm to see a series of short, 1930's-inspired saucy seaside spectacles… click here for more information.
What will you be doing?
