Waitangi Treaty Grounds

About this place

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a historic site in the Bay of Islands in northern New Zealand, near the town of Paihia. Here on 6 February 1840 the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, a founding document in the country's history, making this a key stop for anyone wanting to understand modern New Zealand and Māori culture. At the centre stands the Treaty House, built in 1833 and 1834 for the British Resident James Busby and one of the oldest surviving buildings in the country. The grounds had already seen the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1835. They stayed in private hands until Governor-General Viscount Bledisloe bought them in 1932 and gave them to the nation, and they became a national reserve in 1934. You enter across broad lawns overlooking the bay, finding the white house with its verandah and furnishings, and the land runs down to the water by the flagstaff. A carved Māori meeting house and a huge war canoe called Ngā Toki Matawhaorua were both made for the 1940 celebrations. Staff offer a guided tour and a cultural performance with the ticket. It is 1.8 km in a straight line from central Paihia, within walking distance. Allow at least half a day, as tickets last two consecutive days and include a 50-minute tour. Respect the meeting house and follow your guide's instructions on entering. This is a sensitive place in national memory, and crowds build around Waitangi Day in February, so check ahead.