Waitangi Day is New Zealand's national day, marked every 6 February — a Friday in 2026. It commemorates the signing of the country's founding document, and it's both a celebration and a day of honest national reflection. Here's the history.
See the Waitangi Day holiday page or New Zealand's holiday calendar.
Why is Waitangi Day on February 6?
It marks 6 February 1840, when the Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi) was first signed at Waitangi, in the Bay of Islands, between representatives of the British Crown and a number of Māori chiefs (rangatira). In the following months, around 540 chiefs signed copies taken around the country.
The Treaty is regarded as New Zealand's founding document, setting out the relationship between Māori and the Crown.
Why the Treaty is still debated
The Treaty existed in two versions — English and te reo Māori — that did not say the same thing, especially about sovereignty versus governance. That difference, and later breaches of the Treaty's promises, are at the heart of long-running debates and claims.
So Waitangi Day is both a celebration and a focus for protest and discussion about the Treaty, its meaning, and Māori rights — much like national days in some other countries, an honest account includes this.
How Waitangi Day is observed
- Commemorations at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands, including the Royal New Zealand Navy and traditional Māori ceremonies (pōwhiri, waka).
- Cultural festivals, community events and concerts across the country.
- It is a public holiday.
Quick answers
Why is Waitangi Day on February 6? It marks the first signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on 6 February 1840 between the British Crown and Māori chiefs.
What is the Treaty of Waitangi? New Zealand's founding document, setting out the relationship between Māori and the Crown — signed by around 540 chiefs in 1840.
Why is Waitangi Day sometimes controversial? The English and Māori versions of the Treaty differ over sovereignty, and later breaches mean the day is also a focus for protest and debate about Māori rights.
When is Waitangi Day 2026? Friday, 6 February 2026 — it is always 6 February.