Thousands Celebrate Waitangi Day Across New Zealand

Waitangi Day celebrations across New Zealand showcased a vibrant mix of cultures and community spirit. In Rotorua, the Waitangi Day event at Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa drew around 10,000 attendees, emphasizing the importance of celebrating on sacred Māori land and fostering connections among diverse nationalities. Meanwhile, in Pātea, a music festival attracted 1,500 participants and featured performances primarily in te reo Māori, highlighting local culture and community pride. Te Puia's event focused on family-friendly activities and educational wānanga, enriching attendees' understanding of Māori culture and history. Other celebrations, including a dawn ceremony in the Bay of Islands and a diverse festival in Tauranga, emphasized unity and the significance of Waitangi Day in New Zealand's national identity. Across these events, attendees expressed a sense of warmth and inclusivity, celebrating both Māori heritage and the multicultural fabric of the nation.