It’s nearly here!
Waitangi Day 2021 is approaching rapidly, so it’s almost time to celebrate the national day of New Zealand in style. If you’re stuck for ideas on what to over the long weekend, no sweat. There’s plenty going on in Christchurch that you can partake in to celebrate Waitangi Day. This year marks 181 years since the treaty of Waitangi was signed on 6 February, 1840.
Remember, be sure to keep an eye on event pages and follow any Covid-19 protocols that are implemented.
Have a great Waitangi Day weekend, Christchurch!
1. Head down to Victoria Square
Victoria Square is the place to be on Waitangi Day this year, with plenty of fun, family-friendly activities to fill the day. Visitors will be treated to arts and crafts stalls, with wonderful displays and exhibitions. Plus, there will be children’s games and live entertainment for all to enjoy to celebrate the day of New Zealand. You can even take a waka ride down the Avon river!
2. Partake in the Akaroa Celebrations
Akaroa are holding a special Waitangi Day get-together, promising to be lively ol’ time. There will be a traditional Māori welcome, with wakas paddled up the river, colonial displays, face mask parades, a hangi lunch and more keeping all involved very entertained throughout the day.
3. Tantalise your taste buds at South Island Cheese Festival
This free event is sure to be a popular one. Clos Henri vineyard invites you to taste fine NZ cheeses and create your own picnic to eat on the lawn as you enjoy the day’s entertainment.
4. Celebrate at Okains Bay Museum
This long-running event at the Okains Bay Māori and Colonia Museum has been a stalwart for Waitangi Day in Christchurch since the space opened in 1977. It’s the perfect, family-friendly event to celebrate with activities, demonstrations, Ngāi Tahu waka paddling and more. Find tickets and a full programme for the event here.
5. Enjoy a pop-up concert at A Rolling Stone
This takes place on Sunday, February 7 and is celebrating Waitangi Day weekend as well as 10-years of their pop-up concerts. You’ll be treated to music from Swing 42, John Bevin, Jon Maxim Hooker, Billy Vallance, and Ma Bell & The Blue Tones. Plus, there’s a special guest performance from Divine Miss Bonita Danger Doll. Tickets can be found here.