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Waitangi
Overlooking the sparkling waters of the Bay of Islands is Waitangi where, on February 6th 1840,
New Zealand’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi,
was first signed between Maori Chiefs and the British Crown.
After five years as Governor General of New Zealand and only one visit to Waitangi,
Lord and Lady Bledisloe, recognising the historic significance of this area, purchased
and gave the 506 hectare (1000 acre) estate to the nation. It was on the 10th May 1932
that Lord Bledisloe wrote to the then Prime Minister George Forbes informing him of the gift.
I desire formally, on behalf of Her Excellency and myself, to present, through you, to the nation,
New Zealand’s most historic spot "Waitangi" together with 1000 acres of land belonging to the estate of
which it forms part and which we have recently purchased with this object.
On October 28th 1932 Sir Apirana Ngata, after discussions with Tau Henare, drew the attention of the
House of Representatives to the approaching centenary of the signing of the Treaty. He suggested that a
carved meeting house be built at Waitangi by Maori, led by Ngapuhi (the people of the north) to
commemorate Lord Bledisloe’s generous gift.
The Whare Runanga (meeting house) named Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the restored Treaty House (former home
of James Busby, the first British Resident) were presented to the nation on Waitangi Day, February 6th 1940.
At the same time the ceremonial waka taua (war canoe) Ngatokimatawhaorua was launched.
The Treaty Grounds are part of the Waitangi National Trust estate which is administered by a Trust Board,
chaired by the Governor General and made up of descendents and representatives of people directly connected
with this historic site.
See a complete list of Waitangi activities. This week's featured activities in Waitangi are: Featured Activities |
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Kayaking - Paihia - Starting from NZ $85.00 per person
We offer Boutique guided Sea Kayaking Tours based in Paihia, Northland. Our selection of amazing tours offer something for everyone. Kayak tours start from a fun day tour to custom planned multi day trips in the upper North Island of NZ.
If you want a real adventure we also hire kayaks for multi day rentals to the outer Islands and also have a Rental Base located at Otehei Bay with top of the range Sit on Top Kayaks & Paddleboards, perfect for all ages & abilities. More... |
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Mountain Bike Rental - Paihia - Starting from NZ $79 per person
Paihia Mountain Bike Rentals services both the WAITANGI MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK and the TWIN COAST CYCLE RAIL TRAIL with Brand New, High Quality Full Suspension Mountain Bikes and Shuttle Services along the trails for both you and your bike.
We can cater for large groups, smaller groups, teambuilding events and can personalise your biking adventure in Northland including accomodation packages.
Please get in touch with any questions at all, only too happy to... More... |
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Ports of Call Tour - Whangarei - Starting from $290.00 per person
Experience the warmth of authentic Maori hospitality with a 5-hour extravaganza of traditional Maori tikanga - practices including our arts, delicious foods, songs and incredible history sharing. Become a part of the whanau-family and learn about New Zealand’s beautiful Maori culture directly from knowledgeable and passionate descendants of the land. You will immediately feel welcomed and at ease with your guides as you are welcomed into our own home to experience our culture, learn a Maori... More... |
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Maori - Bay of Islands - Starting from $135.00 per person
Explore the calm waters of the Waitangi River estuary during a 3-hour voyage on a sturdy traditional canoe captained by an experienced local Maori guide. You'll learn native paddling techniques, visit Haruru Falls and look for wildlife, plus hear about Ngapuhi customs, legends and history. The guide teaches you a traditional war dance and takes you to see a Ngapuhi meeting house where you might get the chance to meet members of this Maori community. More... |
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Multi-day Tour - Auckland - Starting from $835.00 per person
Visit the beautiful Bay of Islands, a year-round destination and birthplace of our nation. Journey to New Zealand's northernmost point, Cape Reinga. Discover our cultural heritage at Waitangi Treaty grounds and experience the natural beauty of the region on a scenic Dolphin seeking cruise. Including accommodation in a 3 or 4 star hotel. More... |
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Tour Bay of Islands
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Tour Bay of Islands Area
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 Aarangi Tui Motel - Motel. The Aarangi Tui Motel is located in the heart of Paihia, only 150 metres from the wharf. All studios and apartments...
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3-Day Bay of Islands, Waitangi Treaty Grounds from Auckland with Accommodation - Multi-day Tour - Auckland. Starting from $865.00 per person. 
