Waitangi Day

Another Waitangi Day comes around to mark the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840.  This day was not officially commemorated until 1934 and only became a public holiday in 1974.  Even Wikipedia suggests that the treaty was actually signed on 6 February.  But over 500 chiefs signed over a period of months at many locations throughout the country.  It is typical of the Western view of things that the date that seems to count with historians is the one on which the document was signed on behalf of Queen Victoria and about 40 chiefs – with the great bulk of them only signing later.  Not all iwi signed the treaty with notable exceptions including Tuwharetoa and Tuhoe.

The treaty is an incredibly important foundation for New Zealand but also causes division simply as a result of the English and Maori versions differing in meaning.  No one suggests this was deliberate.  But one of the key differences is whether Maori were ceding sovereignty or not.

Here’s to a peaceful and enjoyable Waitangi Day for all.