Waitangi Day

Your visit to New Zealand overlaps with one of the country’s most important national holidays: Waitangi Day, observed on Friday 6th February.

This national holiday and long weekend falls in between the first & second week of workshops—some of you may be staying on to attend the next session, while others might use the long weekend to explore more of Aotearoa or begin the journey home.

For those who are here, Waitangi Day is a unique opportunity to experience New Zealand’s cultural heart, connect with local communities, or simply enjoy a slower summer day.

Waitangi Day commemorates the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi) in 1840, an agreement between Māori rangatira (chiefs) and the British Crown. It’s a national holiday marked by cultural celebrations, public events, and opportunities to reflect on New Zealand’s history.

• A quieter city, busy country
  Auckland tends to have a relaxed feel on Waitangi Day & the long weekend, with fewer people in town & many taking the opportunity to travel out of Auckland making the highways busy. 
• Changes to opening hours
  Some cafes and shops may be closed, open later/close early, or apply a public holiday surcharge. 
• Summer peak
  It’s the height of the season—book accommodation and intercity travel early if you plan to explore beyond the city.

Auckland – Stay Local

(Drive time: 10–30 minutes)
If you’re based in the city, you can enjoy Waitangi Day without needing to travel far.

• Waitangi ki Ōkahu (Ōrākei)
  A waterfront event hosted by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei with kapa haka, food stalls, live music, and cultural activities.
• Waitangi ki Manukau (Māngere)
  A family-friendly celebration with performances, markets, and community workshops.
• Museums & Parks
  Venues like Auckland Museum, Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT), and Silo Park often host special programmes to mark the day.
  

Waitangi, Bay of Islands (Northland) – National Commemoration

(Drive time: ~3.5 hours)
Visit the site where the Treaty was first signed and experience the official national observance of the day. Best for those wanting to experience the heart of the day’s historical and political significance.

• Waitangi Treaty Grounds
  Attend the dawn ceremony, flag-raising, and formal speeches. Enjoy kapa haka, waka (canoe) displays, live music, and kai (food) stalls.

Waitomo – Nature and Adventure

(Drive time: ~2.5 hours)
Known for its glow-worm caves and limestone formations, Waitomo is perfect if you're after small-town feel, nature and adventure.

• Waitomo Glowworm Caves
  Guided boat or walking tours through magical cave systems.
• Outdoor adventures
  Black-water rafting, bush walks, and scenic drives are all within reach.
  
• Caves & hobbits
  Take a day tour from Auckland to explore the magical Waitomo Caves and the Hobbiton movie set, featured in The Lord of the Rings.
  

Rotorua – Cultural Heartland

(Drive time: ~3 hours)
A centre of Māori culture and geothermal activity, Rotorua is packed with opportunities to engage with te ao Māori (the Māori world). Rotorua offers a deep cultural immersion with plenty of ways to relax or explore between events.

• Te Puia
  Visit this living Māori arts and crafts institute for performances, carving, weaving demonstrations, and bubbling geothermal features.
• Ohinemutu village
  A lakeside Māori settlement with a historic church, wharenui (meeting house), and community-led events.
• Government gardens & lakefront
  Often host music, food, and whānau (family)-friendly activities on Waitangi Day.
  

• Accommodation
  Rotorua and Northland book out quickly over the long weekend— early if travelling.
• Intercity travel
  Public transport is limited and busy—plan ahead or book early if leaving Auckland.
• Sun protection is essential
  NZ has high UV levels. Bring SPF 30+ sunscreen (re-apply often), a hat, sunglasses, and cover shoulders—even on cloudy days.
• Pack for changeable weather
  Auckland’s forecast can flip quickly—carry a light rain jacket along with summer gear.
• Cash
  Most places accept cards, but some rural stalls or markets may prefer cash.