Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae: Waitangi Day a time of special reflection

Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae. Photo / File / Michael Cunningham

The 175th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi is a time of special reflection for all Kiwis, Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae has said in his Waitangi Day address.

A Waitangi Day reception was hosted by Sir Jerry and his wife Lady Janine at Government House in Wellington this afternoon.

The Bledisloe Garden reception followed a special citizenship ceremony which saw 26 people become New Zealand citizens.

During his official Waitangi Day address, Sir Jerry extended a special welcome to all new citizens.

He said the 175th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi was a time of reflection.

"A 175th anniversary is a chance to take stock of where we have come to - and where we are going in the 25 years leading up to the bicentenary of the signing of the Treaty.

"Looking back we can see how much the relationship between the Treaty partners has evolved."

Sir Jerry said while there had been considerable progress in Treaty settlements, the Crown still had a responsibility to actively protect Maori interests, work to remedy past grievances and make informed decisions on issues affecting Maori.

"While it's true to say that they can't undo the wrongs committed in the past, the settlements have gone some way towards restoring an economic and cultural base for iwi.

"By the time of the bicentenary in 2040, I like to think that my mokopuna will live in a New Zealand where we can see the success of post-settlement enterprises reflected in equally impressive social and economic indicators."

Sir Jerry said this year was notable for the many significant commemorative events that would take place, including the centenary of the Gallipoli landings, and the 150 year anniversary of the shift of the seat of Government to Wellington.

"At such times we think about the impact of history, about our role in the world and what this nation stands for.

"I also see these milestones of nationhood as opportunities to reflect on the responsibilities and obligations of citizenship - in addition to the rights and privileges we enjoy."

One of these responsibilities as New Zealand citizens was to honour the Treaty, Sir Jerry said.

"We are fortunate to have such a vibrant mix of cultures taking their place in the sun on Waitangi Day. This confirms that Te Tiriti gives all of our citizens the right to call this beautiful country our home.