Friday Five: Celebrate Waitangi weekend in Wellington

1. Come together for Te Rā o Waitangi 

Te Rā o Waitangi is a free, family-friendly event in the heart of the city where we honour the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, acknowledge our history, and recognise the power of coming together.

Join us at Waitangi Park on Monday 6 February from 12pm to enjoy an award-winning line-up of Māori performers, food and culture. Featuring local legends Tararua, Amba Holly, TOI and more! 

Get more information on Our Wellington. 

2. Enjoy an outdoor movie at our Whānau Film Night 

Pack a picnic dinner and join us for an evening of outdoor cinema on Sunday 5 February at Waitangi Park! From 6pm to 9pm, we'll be showcasing an hour of short films, followed by the feature film ‘Whina’ – the story of Dame Whina Cooper, the beloved Māori matriarch who worked tirelessly to improve the rights of her people, especially women. 

Check out the details on our website.

3. Celebrate at Whairepo Lagoon

Head to the iconic Wharewaka on Monday 6 February from 10am to 2pm to see waka salutes and join in whānau friendly events on and off the water. 

Find out more on the Facebook event. 

4. See the original Te Tiriti o Waitangi and learn about our country’s history

Visit He Tohu at the National Library and see the original 1840 Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Take part in te reo Māori workshops, go on a bilingual tour, dress up in historical costumes, make your own treaty, or leave a pledge for how you will contribute to a more equitable Aotearoa New Zealand in 2023. 

Get more information on the National Library website.

5. Visit the Te Tiriti o Waitangi: Ngā tohu kotahitanga exhibition at Te Papa museum

Are you more of a visual learner? Pop in to Te Papa to learn more about Te Tiriti. While you are there, visit some of their other exhibits such as Rongomaraeroa: Te Marae, Mana Whenua or Ko Rongowhakaata: The Story of Light and Shadow.

Most of our facilities will have modified hours on Monday 6 February (Waitangi Day). View opening hours for our services and facilities on our holiday hours webpage. All rubbish and recycling collections will still happen as usual.