PROJECT
Waitangi ki Whitianga
On 6 February 2025, the inaugural Waitangi ki Whitianga commemoration drew more than 2,000 people to Buffalo Beach Reserve, honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and celebrating kotahitanga. The day opened with a pōwhiri led by Ngāti Hei kaumātua Joe Davis and Raukawa Balsom, supported by Mercury Bay Area School’s Te Puritanga o Hei, whose kapa haka and ritual roles reflected their Treaty-based vision for iwi and whānau-centred education. Rangatahi Te Paea Puha and Chance Haddon (C33Y) held the role of MCs, embodying ka hao te rangatahi as they wove their mauri and youthful energy through the day.
The programme blended kapa haka, kai, and kōrero with toi Māori workshops, hauora services, and entertainment from local kaiwaiata and taonga pūoro performers. Te Mata o Kaiwaka brought the discipline of mau rākau to life, while Te Wharekura o Manaia delivered a standout performance affirming tino rangatiratanga, mana motuhake, and kāwanatanga. Local businesses, iwi, and government agencies supported the kaupapa through stalls, resources, and koha, with the presence of Hauraki iwi and Ngāti Porou ki Harataunga deepening the sense of collective celebration
More than a festival, Waitangi ki Whitianga was an expression of unity across generations. Tamariki played, rangatahi stepped into leadership, kaumātua were honoured, and manuhiri joined whānau in learning, sharing, and celebrating. Alongside the festivities, a hauora survey gathered insights from participants, ensuring community voices will shape future health services. As the sun set, the words heard across the reserve — “Kia ora, bro! See you next year!” — captured the joy and anticipation already building for 2026.
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Responses showed pride and excitement, with many asking for a larger event, more kapa haka, and diverse kai options. Attendees praised the uplifting atmosphere, the wharekai, shaded spaces, and accessible layout, while suggesting more hydration stations and earlier promotion. Whānau spoke of feeling welcomed and connected, with tamariki, rangatahi, and kaumātua each finding their place in the commemoration. The overall sentiment was clear: Waitangi ki Whitianga exceeded expectations and laid a strong foundation for years to come.
Contact us at ngatumanakowhitianga@gmail.com, or follow us on Facebook to stay connected and updated on upcoming events
