Why is the 6th of February Important in NZ?
Waitangi Day, New Zealand’s national day. Every year on 6 February – Waitangi Day – people of all communities and backgrounds usually gather at Waitangi to commemorate the first signing of New Zealand’s founding document: Te Tiriti o Waitangi, The Treaty of Waitangi, on 6 February 1840.
In which year was Waitangi Day declared a public holiday?
1974
The day was first officially commemorated in 1934, and it has been a public holiday since 1974. For some people, Waitangi Day is a holiday; for many, and especially for Māori, it is the occasion for reflecting on the Treaty.
Why is Waitangi Day important to NZ?
Waitangi Day, which commemorates what is considered New Zealand’s founding document, had a long journey in becoming the public holiday it is known as today. The first official commemoration of the Treaty signing at Te Tii marae at Waitangi in 1934.
What is the purpose of Waitangi Day?
Waitangi Day—February 6, the anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi (1840)—is considered the country’s national day. Commemorations are centred on Waitangi but are held throughout the country. Public celebrations include Māori ceremonies as well as sporting events, music, and parades.
When was NZ day changed to Waitangi Day?
The Waitangi Day Act 1960 declared 6 February to be Waitangi Day; a national day of thanksgiving in commemoration of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. Waitangi Day, a public holiday from 1974, briefly became New Zealand Day in the 1970s.
When did New Zealand day change to Waitangi Day?
Transition to public holiday After the 1972 election of the third Labour government under Prime Minister Norman Kirk, it was announced that from 1974, Waitangi Day would be a national holiday known as New Zealand Day. The New Zealand Day Act legislation was passed in 1973.
When were NZ public holidays Mondayised?
This coming Monday, 27 April will be the first ‘Mondayised’ public holiday under the Holidays (Full Recognition of Waitangi Day and ANZAC Day) Amendment Act 2013.
When did New Zealand gain independence from Britain?
Originally part of the Australian colony of New South Wales, New Zealand became a separate colony in 1841 and was made self-governing in 1852. Dominion status was attained in 1907, and full independence was granted in 1931 and ratified by New Zealand in 1947.
Why do people protest Waitangi Day?
In 2004 some Māori used Waitangi Day to protest about the government’s legislation regarding the seabed and foreshore. In the days leading up to Waitangi Day, National Party politicians were pelted with mud, and members of the government were jostled as they entered Te Tii marae.
When did New Zealand get freedom?
1947
In this sense, 1947 can be said to mark the date of New Zealand’s legal independence.
What was Waitangi Day renamed in 1973?
In 1973 the New Zealand Day Act made the day a public holiday and renamed it New Zealand Day, and also abolished the Waitangi Day Act 1960. Many Māori felt that the new name drew attention away from the Treaty of Waitangi, and campaigned for the name to be changed back.
Why is Waitangi Day controversial?
Protests. Over the years this controversy has spurred on protests which are often held on Waitangi Day. Most notably in the 1980’s there were increasing protests from the Maori that the agreements in the Treaty were not being honoured, protests in more recent years have focussed around the foreshore and seabed.
How many Maori public holidays are there?
New Zealand observes public holidays across the year. With a total of 22 holidays consisting of a variety of cultural, national and religious observances, you can take advantage and plan short breaks during long weekends all year round.
Which holidays are Mondayised?
If both Saturday AND Sunday are public holidays, treat Tuesday like it is Mondayised.
- New Year’s Day (1 January)
- Day After New Year’s Day (2 January)
- Waitangi Day (6 February)
- ANZAC Day (25 April)
- Christmas Day (25 December)
- Boxing Day (26 December)
What do you say on Waitangi Day?
Greetings in the languages of the Realm of New Zealand, in English, Māori, Cook Island Māori, Niuean and Tokelauan: Greetings, Kia Ora, Kia Orana, Fakalofa Lahi Atu, Taloha Ni.
Why is the Treaty of Waitangi significant?
The Treaty promised to protect Māori culture and to enable Māori to continue to live in New Zealand as Māori. At the same time, the Treaty gave the Crown the right to govern New Zealand and to represent the interests of all New Zealanders.
What are important holidays in New Zealand?
New Years Day Holiday: Saturday 1 January or Monday 3 January Day after New Years Day: Sunday 2 January or Tuesday 4 January Waitangi Day: Sunday 6 February or Monday 7 February Good Friday: Friday 15 April Easter Monday: Monday 18 April ANZAC Day: Monday 25 April Queen’s Birthday
What are the public holidays in New Zealand?
Shop Opening Days.
How to celebrate Waitangi Day?
With Waitangi Day events online or cancelled, the community is invited to celebrate Aotearoa New Zealand with whānau at home. Due to red traffic light restrictions, the Tauranga Moana Waitangi Day dawn service will be online and the all-day Tauranga Moana
What are the traditions of New Zealand?
Social Beliefs And Customs. New Zealand flags held up by a crowd.