Authentic Waitangi
Waitangi Day is in essence New Zealand's national day. It celebrates, on 6th February, the treaty signed between England and Maori chiefs in 1840, which forms the basis of modern New Zealand. It was signed in the Far North, in the Bay of Islands at a place called Waitangi.
Every year, Maori tribes from all over the country congregate at Waitangi to commemorate the treaty. It is probably the most significant date in the Maori calendar. There are two main aspects to this commemoration - a dawn service and a massed flotilla of waka (traditional canoes). There have been as many as 300 warriors in 20 waka in the last few years.
These waka are filled to the brim with fierce warriors selected for their personal prowess and competence. It is an honour for Maori to paddle a waka on Waitangi Day.
For the first time ever, it is possible for tourists to join this awe-inspiring celebration. This is because our kaitiaki (guardian), Hone Mihaka, is one of the pre-eminent chiefs of Nga Puhi (the fierce northern tribe), and his mana (prestige) allows him to take guests along.
Obviously, it is very important for those guests to be properly versed in traditions, chants and waka paddling. So this itinerary focuses on an intensive 3-day preparation for Waitangi, followed by Waitangi itself and then a feast day afterwards. In accordance with Maori culture, the accommodation is communal and the starts are very early.
This is something people will tell their grandchildren about. "I paddled a waka with Maori on Waitangi Day".
Together with Hone Mihaka of Taiamai Tours, our old friend, Ahipara Luxury Travel enjoys exclusive access to this event in 2011. Contact us for more details, the base package, or to tailormake a New Zealand experience for you incorporating this unique event.
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