Library notice: Bullock Creek Lane closed for asphalting on Saturday 25 January and Saturday 1 February. Wānaka Library open to pedestrians. Limited parking available at the Lake Wānaka Centre.

Waitangi Day

Be part of Waitangi Day commemorations 2025.

Quick links

Overview

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Event programme

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What to expect

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Transport and Parking

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Waitangi Day in the Gardens

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Overview

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and Kāi Tahu Papatipu Rūnaka e Whitu are hosting the Waitangi Day commemoration in Tāhuna Queenstown on 6 February 2025 and extend a warm invitation to all.

Queenstown Lakes residents are invited to join Kāi Tahu and QLDC as ‘hau kāinga’ (home people) and welcome our manuhiri (visitors) from outside of the district.

This year we tautoko (support) the theme of unity and partnership between Te Tiriti o Waitangi partners, focusing on collaborative stewardship initiatives such as Project Tohu (indigenous reforestation on Coronet Peak Mauka) and WaiWhakaata Lake Hayes Catchment Programme, alongside other high level strategic work such as the Grow Well – Whaiora Spatial Plan. These efforts, developed through partnerships with mana whenua, councils and community groups, showcase our shared commitment to the wellbeing of our taiao (natural environment).

Join us for a day of reflection, unity and inspiration, honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

This event is kindly supported by Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage, Community Trust South, Otago Regional Council and other Southland and Otago councils.

Event programme

The official ceremony will be led by Kāi Tahu, joined by Mayor Glyn Lewers, commemorating the Treaty’s 185-year legacy.

  • 9.45am – 10.45am: Pōwhiri
  • 10.45am – 1.00pm: Kapa haka and onstage performances
  • 1.00pm – 2.00pm: Speakers (to be confirmed)

What to expect

Following the formalities, we welcome the community to enjoy kai through our wonderful local food trucks or a picnic brought from home. There will be kapa haka and music performances along with community stalls hosted by:

  • Down South Whakairo - Māori Arts and Crafts
  • Kahu Youth Trust with games and resource info
  • Te Tapu o Tāne - Integrated Solutions For Regenerative Landscapes
  • Queenstown Lakes District Council Libraries with Welcoming Communities
  • Uruuruwhenua Health Inc. with rongoā practitioners

Bring your:

  • family and friends
  • picnic basket or enjoy kai from our wonderful local food trucks
  • picnic blanket or chair to sit on, your sunhat and sun block
  • dogs are welcome but must be on lead at all times

Transport and Parking

All Queenstown regular bus services will be free from 8.00am to 4.00pm (this includes the Arrowtown service). 

Driving in? Check out the QLDC website for parking options.

Note that there is a temporary carpark on Queenstown’s Stanley Street providing approximately 54 spaces for use until after Waitangi weekend in 2025 at $3.10 per hour. 

Waitangi Day in the Gardens

Mana Tāhuna are hosting ‘Waitangi Day in the Gardens’ in Te Kararo Queenstown Gardens from 1.00pm – 5.00pm. All are welcome to come along and enjoy live music, games for tamariki and great kai from local food vendors.

For more information please head to:

www.facebook.com/ManaTahuna

www.instagram.com/manatahuna