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Waitangi Day in New Zealand
Waitangi Day commemorates the 1840 signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between the British Crown and Māori chiefs, New Zealand’s founding document. See the exact date for New Zealand above.
History
Waitangi Day commemorates the 1840 signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between the British Crown and Māori chiefs, New Zealand’s founding document.
How it's celebrated
It is a public holiday in New Zealand — government offices, schools, and most businesses close for the day.
See the full list of public holidays in New Zealand for 2027, browse an interactive calendar, or check holidays for any country with the holidays tool.
Frequently asked questions
Is Waitangi Day a public holiday in New Zealand?
Yes — Waitangi Day is a public holiday in New Zealand.
What does Waitangi Day commemorate?
Waitangi Day commemorates the 1840 signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between the British Crown and Māori chiefs, New Zealand’s founding document.