The journey of New Zealand begins here
New Zealand’s most important historic site. More details at www.waitangi.org.nz
Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi holds a stunning collection of stories and taonga (treasured objects) that bring to life the history of Waitangi, Aotearoa New Zealand’s most important historic site.
Te Whare Rūnanga (the House of Assembly) is a beautifully carved meeting house designed in traditional Māori form and built from timber and other natural materials. The meeting house was opened on 6th February 1940 and stands facing the Treaty House on the upper grounds of Waitangi. Together the two buildings symbolise the Treaty of Waitangi partnership between Māori and the British Crown on which the nation of Aotearoa New Zealand is founded. The meeting house reflects the Māori stories and carving styles of iwi, or tribes, from across New Zealand, and unites not only Māori and Pakeha, but all New Zealanders.
The Treaty House at Waitangi is the former house of the first British Resident in New Zealand, James Busby. The Treaty House was originally known as ‘the Residency’ or ‘Busby House’, and is where James Busby conducted much of his official business as the British government’s representative in New Zealand from 1833 to 1840.
The Waitangi flagstaff marks the spot where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed on 6 February 1840. The flags that fly today are the three official flags New Zealand has had since 1834 – Te Kara, the flag of The United Tribes of New Zealand (the earliest), the Union flag (from 1840) and the New Zealand flag (from 1902).
Waitangi is home to the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe, named Ngātokimatawhaorua, built to mark the centenary of the Treaty of Waitangi’s signing in 1940 and was built by members of New Zealand’s northern and Waikato tribes. The waka is launched every year in February as part of Waitangi Day celebrations. It is 37.5m long and holds up to 150 paddlers.
