Celebrating Waitangi Day with the grandkids

Kia Ora, readers! It’s that time of year again – Waitangi Day is right around the corner and with one of New Zealand’s favourite holidays looming, now is the time to start thinking about how you’re going to celebrate.

A short history

Waitangi Day commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, when New Zealand was officially recognised as a modern country thanks to an agreement between the British Crown and New Zealand Maori rangatira chiefs. Since being incorporated as an official public holiday in 1974, Waitangi Day has captured the hearts and spirits of Kiwis across the country, and around the world.

What better way to spark an appreciation and understanding for Waitangi Day in the next generation than by celebrating with the grandkids? To get you inspired we’ve put together some family-friendly ideas that will appeal to every age group.

Go for a paddle

The Treaty of Waitangi has deep significance for New Zealand’s Maori population, especially those who lived in the Bay of Islands, where the treaty was signed in 1840. Just steps from the Treaty House at Waitangi in Northland, the magnificent ceremonial war canoe used by the local iwi Ngāpuhi people is on show. Taking inspiration from New Zealanders who have occupied the Bay of Islands from since the 10th century, Waitangi Day can be a great excuse to rent a modern canoe or kayak and explore your local waterways.

Poster profiles

James Busby, William Hobson and Hōne Heke were the three driving forces behind the Treaty of Waitangi. If your little ones love arts and crafts, why not spend the afternoon creating colourful posters exploring the legacies of the three men and the roles they played in the signing of the treaty?

Discuss the nitty gritty

There’s no escaping the fact that while Waitangi Day is celebrated by many, it’s also a source of controversy. If you have older grandkids why not take the opportunity to discuss the significance of the treaty and how New Zealand compares to other countries that have experienced colonialism. Look at positives and negatives, discuss ongoing issues and think about ways Waitangi Day can be used to bring communities together.

Patriotic arts and crafts

From toddlers to pre-teens, most kids jump at the chance to get creative with arts and crafts. Keep the Waitangi Day theme strong with activities like colouring in Maori drawings or making poi out of plastic bags and wool. There’s also creating felt cutouts of NZ animals like kiwis, dolphins and penguins. Pinterest is a great place to gather inspiration.

How will you be celebrating Waitangi Day this year?