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Waitangi Day

Waitangi Day celebrates the date the treaty was signed in New Zealand on February 6, 1840. It is a day of great importance and celebration.

Upcoming Dates For Waitangi Day

The celebration date for Waitangi Day is February 6. However, if the date should fall on a weekend, the public holiday will land on the following weekday. Here are the upcoming dates, and their observations:

  • Monday, February 6, 2017
  • Tuesday, February 6, 2018
  • Wednesday, February 6, 2019
  • Thursday, February 6, 2020
  • Saturday, February 6, 2021
  • Monday, February 8, 2021 - Observation of the holiday
  • Sunday, February 6, 2022
  • Monday, February 7, 2022 - Observation of the holiday
  • Monday, February 6, 2023
  • Tuesday, February 6, 2024
  • Thursday, February 6, 2025

Where Is Waitangi Day Considered a Holiday?

Waitangi Day is considered a public holiday, which means most establishments are closed. Government offices and schools will be closed to celebrate. Private businesses may be open, at the choice of the owners. However, many will close. Many people will be too busy indulging in celebrations to open their shops to the public. Public transportation will also be unavailable for the most part.

Festivities & Events During Waitangi Day

To celebrate the signing of the treaty, there are ceremonies at the Waitangi treaty grounds. These ceremonies often incorporate traditional dancing. There are speeches read out loud to the crowd. Also, many take this day as a chance to discuss cultural groups and make public debates on national identity. This is a very important day in New Zealand because it addresses many issues. Although it's not all business, since there is dancing and music. There are sports and many fun activities. It's both educational and celebratory. It's a great chance to experience the rich culture of New Zealand.

A Brief History About Waitangi Day

The founding document was signed in 1840, though only officially commemorated in 1934. This founding document was a treaty signed between 500 Maori chiefs and the British Crown. It celebrated unity, allowing New Zealand independence. It has only been considered a public holiday since 1974, but has been celebrated every year since.