Waitangi Day Overview and Events

February 3, 2026

Te Rā o Waitangi – Waitangi Day

Each year on the 6^th February Aotearoa (New Zealand) marks the signing of Te tiriti o Waitangi back in 1840, which is considered to be New Zealand’s founding document. An acknowledgement must also be made of He whakaputanga 1835 (The declaration of independence 1835 ) that predates Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Historical overview

Waitangi Day has been a significant day on New Zealand’s calendar since Te Tiriti o Waitangi was first signed in 1840. The flagstaff which stands on the Upper Treaty Grounds marks the location of the first Treaty signing by representatives of the British Crown and over 40 rangatira (chiefs) on 6 February 1840.

On 5 February 1840 a marquee was erected on the lawn in front of the home of the British resident, James Busby. Captain William Hobson presented a proposal for the attending chiefs to agree to British settlement in New Zealand. The meeting lasted throughout the day, during which the chiefs vigorously debated the proposed Treaty, with some rangatira supporting the Treaty and others opposed to it. The discussions continued that night across the Waitangi River at what is now Te Tii Marae.

On February 6 the rangatira returned to the marquee at Waitangi, where over 40 signed the Māori version of the document, now known as Te Tiriti o Waitangi. By September 1840 over 500 leaders from throughout New Zealand had signed the document.

The following link takes you to the signing sheets and the names of the Rangatira who signed the document.

Treaty sheets and signing locations | NZ History

A day of remembrance

Waitangi day was first officially commemorated in 1934, and it has been a public holiday since 1974. Communities gather to discuss, reflect and take action for a better future. From dawn ceremonies to whānau-friendly events, there are many ways to connect, learn, and uphold the promise of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Find an event near you and be part of shaping the future of Aotearoa, together.

2026 celebrations

This year Waitangi Day events across New Zealand involve national commemorations at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds with cultural festivals, music, and traditional Māori ceremonies, alongside community-led gatherings, dawn services, and cultural activities in cities like Auckland (Okahu Bay), Tauranga, and Taranaki (Ngāmotu Beach), all focusing on learning about and honouring the founding document of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Key Types of Events

The Official Commemoration: Held at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands, featuring pōhiri (welcoming ceremonies), speeches, cultural performances, and community engagement.
Community Festivals: Large festivals, like those in Auckland (Okahu Bay) and Tauranga, offer music, food, kapa haka, and family activities.
Dawn Services & Gatherings: Many locations host dawn services, with local iwi and councils organizing gatherings for reflection and cultural immersion.
Cultural & Educational Events: Museums, libraries, and community centres offer workshops, displays, and discussions about the Treaty and Māori culture.

Where to Find Events:

Waitangi Treaty Grounds: The central location for national events, often with festivals and ceremonies.
Auckland: Events at Okahu Bay (Takaparawhau Reserve) and parks like Cornwall Park.
Tauranga Moana: Hosts its own festival and dawn service for the community.
Taranaki: Features markets and family-friendly events, like the Waitangi ki Whaitara Market at Ngāmotu Beach.

How to Participate:

Attend a Local Event: Check with your local council or iwi for community events.
Visit the Treaty Grounds: Experience the main national commemoration.
Engage with Culture: Participate in workshops, listen to stories, and learn about Māori traditions.
Reflect: Use the day to connect with others and understand the significance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Use the links below to find more event details:

https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/news/2026/01/waitangi-day-2026-events

Waitangi Day | Visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds | Learn & Book

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

https://www.waitangi.org.nz › whats-on › waitangi-day

Waitangi Day 2026 events announced for Tāmaki Makaurau

OurAuckland

https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz › …

Waitangi Day 2026 – What’s on – Auckland War Memorial …

Auckland War Memorial Museum

https://www.aucklandmuseum.com › visit › whats-on

Waitangi Day Hīkoi– Waitematā to Auckland Art Gallery