Local Waitangi Day commemorations will be hosted in collaboration between iwi, Whakatū Marae, and Council.

Event: Waitangi Day, Whakatū Nelson

Date: Thursday, 6 February 2025

Venue: Whakatū Marae and Founders Heritage Park

Time: 9.00am – 3.00pm

Koha (gold coin) entry

The 2025 Waitangi Day event will commence with a pōwhiri at 9.00am hosted by Ngāti Rārua and other iwi of Te Tauihu o Te Waka-a-Māui.

The pōwhiri is an opportunity for the community to be welcomed onto Whakatū Marae by iwi and learn more about its history. Guests are asked to gather at the waha roa (gateway) and entrance to the marae grounds in preparation for the welcoming ceremony where you will be met by the hosts.

After the pōwhiri there will be a variety of activities at the marae. Including four 30-minute guided tours of the Kaakati the whare tupuna (ancestral house) led by iwi. The tours will commence after the pōwhiri at 10am and will conclude at 1pm.

The annual International Kai Festival will commence at 10am at Founders Heritage Park selling a variety of kai and refreshments, as well as arts & crafts. 

Entertainment will feature performances by local kapa haka and Pacifica groups and special guests to be confirmed.  

Bring your whānau along and join us.