11 saved#4,947 of 6,224

Waitangi Day

Get ready to honor the Treaty of Waitangi and celebrate New Zealand's rich culture with our guide to a memorable Waitangi Day!

Saturday

February 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEFebruary 6

OBSERVED INNew Zealand

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate Waitangi Day on February 6th, a day that holds great significance in New Zealand's history and culture. This national holiday marks the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, which established the British Crown's sovereignty over New Zealand while also recognizing Māori rights and ownership of their lands. Today, it is a time for both reflection and celebration as the country comes together to honor this important moment in its past. From traditional ceremonies to lively parades, there are many ways to join in on the festivities and learn more about this special day. So let's get ready to commemorate Waitangi Day with pride and joy!

TIMELINE

Waitangi Day Timeline

Signing of the Treaty

Representatives of the United Kingdom and over 500 Māori chiefs signed the Treaty of Waitangi, aiming to establish a British Governorship in New Zealand.

First Recognized Celebration

The first official recognition of the holiday occurred, with the Governor-General of New Zealand, Lord Bledisloe, gifting the Treaty House and grounds to the nation.

Waitangi Day Act

The Waitangi Day Act of 1947 proclaimed February 6th as a day of national thanksgiving in commemoration of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.

Day Becomes National Holiday

In 1960, the New Zealand Parliament legislated the date to become a national public holiday.

Public Protests

The 1970s saw increased protests on Waitangi Day, bringing attention to Māori grievances over the Treaty’s interpretation and implementation.

National Commemoration

Today, Waitangi Day is marked by various ceremonies, public events, and speeches at Waitangi and across the country, reflecting the mixed feelings surrounding the Treaty.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Waitangi Day

Attend a Waitangi Day celebration

Check your local community events or cultural centers for Waitangi Day celebrations. These events often feature traditional Maori performances, music, food, and activities.

LEARN

Learn about Maori culture and history

Take some time to educate yourself about Maori culture and history on Waitangi Day. You can visit museums, read books, or attend lectures to learn more about this important part of New Zealand's heritage.

HOST

Host a Maori-inspired feast

Gather friends and family for a delicious feast featuring traditional Maori dishes such as hangi (meat and vegetables cooked in an earth oven) or boil-up (a stew made with pork, potatoes, and vegetables). Don't forget to include some Maori cultural elements in the meal, such as a haka performance or a blessing before eating.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a cultural workshop or activity

Many communities offer workshops or activities on Waitangi Day that allow you to learn and participate in Maori cultural practices. These can include weaving, carving, or traditional storytelling.

ATTEND

Attend a Waitangi Day parade or ceremony

Join in on the festivities by attending a Waitangi Day parade or ceremony. These events often feature cultural performances, speeches, and flag-raising ceremonies.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Waitangi Day is Important

It highlights cultural diversity

On Waitangi Day, events are held throughout the country that showcase Māori culture through art, music, food, and traditional performances. The holiday celebrates and embraces the unique cultural heritage of New Zealand and recognizes the importance of inclusivity and diversity in society.

It marks the founding of New Zealand

Waitangi Day commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, which established British sovereignty over New Zealand and recognized Māori rights to their land and resources. It serves as a reminder of the country's foundation and the importance of honoring its indigenous culture.

It promotes unity and reconciliation

Waitangi Day is also known as New Zealand's national day and is recognized as a public holiday. It brings people from all over the country together to celebrate their shared history and work towards understanding and healing any past grievances between Māori and non-Māori communities.

Related holidays

MON

Jan 2026

Culture

Wellington Anniversary Day

Celebrate Wellington Anniversary Day in style – remembering its rich history and vibrant culture, while savoring New Zealand's finest delights!

Māori Language Week

Immerse yourself in the richness of New Zealand's heritage – Māori Language Week! Speak the words, feel the spirit, celebrate the culture.

Cook Islands Constitution Day

Get ready to celebrate Cook Islands Constitution Day with cultural performances, traditional food, and festive decorations honoring the nation's founding document.

11Read

FRI

Jan 2026