177yrs ago the Treaty of Waitangi, which is the founding document of New Zealand was signed. It is an agreement entered into by representatives of the Crown and of Māori iwi (tribes) and hapū (sub-tribes). It is named after the place in the Bay of Islands where the Treaty was first signed, on 6 February 1840.
I don’t know where Waitangi Day sits with you. For many, I suspect it is ‘just a holiday’. Personally, I have never attended the celebrations at Waitangi. As with any public holiday though, I do like to take a little bit of time to consider ‘why we celebrate’.
Waitanig Day is a celebration of unity as a nation – or should be. A unity we have as New Zealanders – New Zealanders of many different colours, cultures and accents. Perhaps you (& I) could take some time to reflect on what it is to be a citizen of this land. What is our (my) responsibility help us be a united country, a united people. How do we (I) promote/demonstrate living in unity?
This traditional Maori proverb translates “A canoe which we are all in with no exception”.
I quote here from the Rt Rev Richard Dawson and his Message for Waitangi Day 2017:
“In other words, we are all in this land together so we may as well start working together for each other and leave no one behind.
This Nation was begun with a deep sense that we should create a fair and just society.
Let us welcome all into our canoe.
Let us help all to know they belong here.
Let us work while it is still light!”
