Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Waitangi Treaty Grounds welcomes you on a journey of discovery through Aotearoa New Zealand’s most important historic site, where in 1840 New Zealand’s founding document was signed: the Treaty of Waitangi.

Features of Waitangi Treaty Grounds include Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi, the Treaty House, the carved Meeting House, a carving studio and the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe.

Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi holds a stunning collection of stories and taonga (treasured objects) which bring to life the history of Waitangi. Discover world class interactive displays and enjoy the temporary gallery featuring touring exhibitions.

Te Rau Aroha was opened in 2020 and commemorates the service and sacrifice of Māori in the NZ Armed Forces, sharing stories of heroism, loss and restoration from the world wars and subsequent conflicts.

Visitors to Waitangi Treaty Grounds may purchase an Experience Pass which includes a guided tour (50 minutes), a Māori cultural performance (30 minutes), entry to the two museums, the Treaty House, the carved Meeting House, and the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe.

Hāngi and concert evenings are scheduled during the summer months – an intimate cultural experience not to be missed.

The award-winning Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a must-do for all visitors to the Bay of Islands.

Hangi & Concert Evening an exceptional evening of authentic Māori culture, including a captivating live performance followed by a traditional hāngi dinner, cooked in an earth oven, where you can sample Māori culture and cuisine at its best!

The perfect way to complete your visit to Waitangi – After a day of exploring the Waitangi Treaty Grounds at your leisure, your evening begins at Whare Waka Café.

Enjoy a complimentary drink on arrival as you meet other guests and learn about the history of Māori hāngi
Learn about this ancient cooking technique from our hāngi chef and see your dinner being prepared
Enjoy a short bush walk and experience a fierce and exciting challenge from Māori warriors
Be entertained by our Māori performing arts group, who will share a special night show
Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner of meats, bread stuffing and vegetables from the hāngi, as well as breads, salads and steamed pudding for dessert!

*Transfers- To help make your evening more enjoyable, we provide complimentary pick up and drop off from your accommodation in the Paihia area, so you can enjoy a delicious dinner and an evening of authentic cultural entertainment in Paihia and the Bay of Islands.

Where to find us