Waitangi Day Outings For Kids

Celebrating Waitangi Day with Kids in 2023

Waitangi Day is an important day in New Zealand's history, marking the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. This day is celebrated annually and is a great opportunity to spend some quality time with family and friends. If you're looking for some fun, educational and exciting activities for your kids to enjoy on Waitangi Day, then you've come to the right place. Here are some great ideas for Waitangi Day outings for kids.

Visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are the perfect place to take your kids on Waitangi Day. This is the site where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, and it is now a popular tourist attraction. The grounds are open year-round, and they offer a variety of activities and tours. On Waitangi Day, the grounds are usually open and they offer special events and activities for families and kids. You can take a tour of the grounds, visit the museum, and even partake in a traditional Maori haka dance.

Visit a Maori Marae

Visit a local marae to experience a traditional Maori welcome. Marae are communal meeting places for the Maori people, and they are often open to visitors. Most marae will offer a traditional welcome ceremony, including a powhiri, which is a special Maori greeting. This is a great way to introduce your kids to the Maori culture and help them understand the importance of Waitangi Day. You can also ask the marae about any special events or activities they may be offering on Waitangi Day.

Attend a Waitangi Day Parade

Many cities and towns around New Zealand will host a Waitangi Day parade. These parades are usually full of music, colour, and culture. It's a great way to get the kids out of the house and enjoy the festivities. Plus, they'll get to see some of the local Maori culture and learn a bit more about the history of Waitangi Day.

Go on a Cultural Tour

If you're looking for something a bit more educational, then why not take the kids on a cultural tour? There are plenty of tours available that will take you around the country to visit some of the most important Maori sites and learn more about the culture and history of the country. Plus, it's a great way to get the kids away from screens and out into the fresh air.

Visit a Museum

There are lots of great museums around New Zealand that will help your kids learn more about the history of Waitangi Day. Most museums will have special displays and activities related to Waitangi Day, and some will even offer workshops and talks. It's a great way to get your kids interested in the history and culture of the country.

Take a Hike

If your kids are more adventurous, then why not take them for a hike? There are plenty of great trails around the country, and some will even take you to some of the most important historical sites. Plus, it's a great way to get the kids away from screens and out into nature.

Go to the Beach

Finally, why not spend the day at the beach? New Zealand has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and it's a great way to celebrate Waitangi Day with the kids. You can take a picnic, go for a swim, or just relax and enjoy the sun. There's no better way to celebrate Waitangi Day than at the beach.

Conclusion

Waitangi Day is an important day in New Zealand's history, and it's a great opportunity to get out and enjoy some quality time with family and friends. Whether you're looking for a fun day out or an educational experience, there are plenty of great activities for kids to enjoy on Waitangi Day. From visiting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to going for a hike, there are lots of great ways to celebrate this day with your kids.