New arrangements for Waitangi Day

New arrangements are being put into place to enhance access for the expected 30,000 visitors to the February 6 commemorations at Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Last year, crowds swelled to a record 23,500 and if fine weather persists, organisers are expecting up to 30,000.

This placed considerable pressure on the one-lane bridge crossing the Waitangi River, the main access onto the grounds, Waitangi Day Governance Committee chair Jeanette Richardson said today.

A meeting of the committee today confirmed major enhancements to access arrangements.

"The solution we will trial this Waitangi Day has two separate components" Ms Richardson said.

"First, we are providing park-n-ride facilities from Hawke Farm near Haruru Falls. Five thousand parking places will be available, with staff to monitor the carpark. Shuttles will begin at 8am, and run on the hour, returning hourly (on the half hour) until 6.30pm.

"That will allow people to stay for the navy's sunset ceremony which is always a highlight of the day."

The other component is a stop-off by the regular bay ferry at the newly upgraded Waitangi Pier. Fullers Bay Belle will include Waitangi on each of its usual scheduled trips in both directions between Russell and Paihia.

"This will especially suit those who are staying in the two holiday towns but who don't want to face either queuing up in traffic, or walking right along the waterfront past Te Tii marae and across the bridge."

Ms Richardson said that as Waitangi Day fell on a Monday this year, an expanded festival of sports and cultural activities could also lead to larger numbers staying in the region.

"After all, a very special place to celebrate Waitangi is at Waitangi," said Ms Richardson.

A new permanent outdoor stage and more toilet facilities have been built, power supplies have been extended in the grounds, and more community and sports groups have been confirmed to take part in the festivities.

Festival manager Andy Larsen said the weekend festival would be split into two distinct identities.

"On Saturday, there is stage entertainment all day, with the Treaty Grounds' own cultural group He Tohu, the band and the kapa haka group of the Royal New Zealand Navy, visiting school cultural groups and Maori story-telling."

Sunday will concentrate on sports, Mr Larsen said.

- NZPA