Every year on 6 February, New Zealand marks the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. For most people, Waitangi Day is a holiday; for many, and especially for Maori, it is a time for reflecting on the Treaty and its place in modern New Zealand.
Governor-General Lord Bledisloe gifted the Treaty House and grounds at Waitangi to the nation in 1932. Two years later there were celebrations at Waitangi to mark the date of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.
From the 1940s the Treaty and Waitangi began to find a place in the national consciousness. For most New Zealanders, they were of historical interest only.
The Waitangi Day Act 1960 declared 6 February to be Waitangi Day – a national day of thanksgiving in commemoration of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.
Waitangi Day in the 21st century has been linked more closely with New Zealand identity, and events have expanded beyond Waitangi itself. Protests have continued, and representatives of the Crown have not always been present at Waitangi.
The Treaty House is New Zealand's most-visited historic building. In 1932 Governor-General Lord Bledisloe gifted it to the nation. The house and grounds have been the focus of Waitangi Day events since 1934.
The variety of entertainment and fun enjoyed by many at Waitangi each Waitangi day is usually ignored by the media. Members of this aerobics group from the Kensington Fitness Centre are showing their paces.
