Waitangi Day 2005: United in praise

Waitangi National Trust has reported the highest number of visits recorded to the Treaty Grounds on Waitangi Day.

Despite poor weather, 20,000 people visited during the day.

The Herald last week asked the principal organisers for their hopes for Waitangi Day. Today, we ask them how they feel the celebrations went.

Pita Paraone, trust board member and New Zealand First MP

"There's been a good spirit about the place and people are feeling pretty good about it. I'm not bothered by the hikoi. I was pleasantly surprised that they [the marchers] seemed to be pretty well organised.

Lieutenant Commander Frank Rands, Royal NZ Navy co-ordinator

"From previous years I think there has been less confrontation and more of families here. From my perspective I think it was better [than last year] and it is getting better each year. I think the highlight for me was the Navy going to Te Tii Marae [on Saturday] and being welcomed on there."

Liz Makene, commemorations committee secretary, Te Puni Kokiri administration officer

"Everything looks to have gone quite smoothly despite the showers during the day. The mere fact that we have been able to have all the activities has been a highlight.

Inspector Mike Rusbatch, northern area police commander

"We are ecstatic with the behaviour of all people who visited Waitangi. Clearly this is one of the best Waitangi Days we have had over recent years. People were given opportunities to express their points of view and a number of issues and they were able to do that without going overboard."

Hec Busby, Waka representative and a founding member of Nga Waka Federation

"Unfortunately the waka didn't go out because it was just a little bit too choppy. We didn't want to take any risks. But it's been a great two days up here anyway."

Kaye Taylor, co-ordinator of Waitangi Day children's and sports activities

"It ended up being wonderful because when we were setting up the kids games and preparing for the sports field it was absolutely teeming down. We had Helen Clark come and visit and the kids loved it.