Waitangi
Situated on the North Island of New Zealand, Waitangi is a small settlement within walking distance of Paihia in the Bay of Islands and the two towns operate as one. It is a one hour fifteen minute drive from Whangarei and Three and a half hours from Auckland. The Treaty of Waitangi signing is its main claim to fame although the Declaration of Independence was also signed here some years before. Waitangi is steeped in history and there are a number of guided tours available to discover how Waitangi came to be known as the birth place of New Zealand. The Treaty grounds are within The Waitangi National Reserve and open daily between October and April. Individual and group tours are taken by experienced guides and many are descendants of Maori Chiefs who present and explain their stories in vivid detail. See into the heart of the spiritual side by visiting the Treaty House and entering a traditional Meeting House, a truly sacred experience. Cultural performances include the haka and take you on a journey of Maori song. Audio visual shows and the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe are also a part of this authentic New Zealand attraction. There are carvings on show created by tribes from around New Zealand and a great souvenir shop to find a precious memory. Two cafes within the grounds provide the perfect place to relax and refresh. The Waitangi Café has a collection of paintings on show from some of the best artists in New Zealand. These can be purchased from the café along with a selection of local pickles and country fare. The fully licensed Waikokopu Café is a great place for lunch with it’s beautiful views and fine food.
Within the Waitangi National Trust Estate you will also find the picturesque 18 hole Waitangi Golf course and the Bay of Islands Yacht Club. The Haruru Falls are only 3kms away and can be explored on foot or by kayak. Accommodation and dining options of all kinds are available in Paihia.