Entertainment and education on Waitangi Day

Waka paddlers prepare for today's festivities. Picture / Richard Robinson

Waitangi

Ceremonies begin with a karakia at 5.30am. Waka then gather at Te Tii Bay, weather and tide permitting, and at noon the Royal New Zealand Navy will fire a 21-gun salute. During the day there are sports events and a variety of entertainment, and at sunset the Navy beats the retreat and lowers the flag.

Auckland

Hoani Waititi Marae: A chance to experience traditional powhiri, karanga, wero, waiata and hongi. There will be explanations of the Treaty and Maori protocol, refreshments, performances and activities. The powhiri starts at noon, and the event ends at 4.30pm. All welcome; entry free.

Hayman Park, Manukau City: A multicultural musical celebration with dance, food and craft stalls, as well as an online Treaty workshop and a traditional Maori arts workshop. Gates open at 10am; all welcome; free.

Hamilton

A free family day of entertainment, fun and Treaty awareness at Innes Common, with food and crafts and children's events. The powhiri begins at 7am, on-stage entertainment begins at 8am and the waka ceremony at 11am.

Bay Of Plenty

Local iwi Ngaiterangi host a concert which includes local bands Kokomo Blues, Torch Songs, The Blackout Cru and Brilleaux Fusion. Kapa haka and an art exhibition add to the free fun, at Mt Maunganui's main beach from noon.

Wellington

Ethnic communities come together in Frank Kitts Park in a free event hosted by tangata whenua. It combines kapa haka, Cook Island drumming, Bollywood dance, Latin American dance and more, from 12.30pm.