Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Waitangi 0293, Northland, New Zealand 

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are New Zealand’s most important cultural site, and for visitors, it is an essential stopping point to gain an understanding of the turbulent, complex living history of the country. Now a large National Trust Reserve, Waitangi Treaty Grounds offer a captivating stop on a Northland tour, encompassing swathes of the Bay of Island’s estuary, native bush and wildlife filled mangrove forests. Though it is especially known for its history and culture, Waitangi offers an idyllic place to relax and reflect in nature.

Waitangi is littered throughout the pages of New Zealand’s history, representing the first sight of land, and trading point for all the early European Explorers and whalers, though with trade and exposure came conflict and anger. So it was here, on the shores of the Bay of Islands that European and Maori leaders came to negotiate, choose a flag and create a new nation. The Treaty House at Waitangi remains a huge draw for visitors from around New Zealand, and far beyond, and is one of the oldest buildings still standing, dating back to 1834. However, this is only half of the story. The Whare Runanga, a Maori meeting house built to commemorate the centenary of the Treaty, is utterly unique, showing carvings and folklore from tribes across New Zealand. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a spiritual place, where both sides of the treaty are celebrated and honoured.

Epic New Zealand Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound

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