Waitangi Day (New Zealand)

Waitangi Day (New Zealand) is New Zealand’s national day, Waitangi Day, marks the anniversary of the initial 1840 signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, which is generally regarded as the founding document of New Zealand. It is a public holiday in New Zealand. The day was not commemorated until 1934, and not celebrated as the national day until 1974. A variety of events are staged in celebration, such as parties, Māori gatherings and citizenship ceremonies. It is a source of some controversy, however, among some Māori activists and their supporters, and protests are also held this day.