David Unwin/Stuff
Organisers will be hoping the rain stays away on Monday like it did for 2020’s Waitangi Day celebration in Te Marae o Hine – The Square (file photo).
Monday’s commemorations could represent an opportunity for everyone in Manawatū to learn about mana whenua and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Local iwi Rangitāne o Manawatū and Palmerston North City Council will celebrate the 182nd anniversary of the signing of Te Tiriti at Te Marae o Hine – The Square with educational and interactive activities planned for the day.
On February 6, the open event will start at 11am with community organisations such as Whakapai Hauora, Te Waka Huia, Te Tihi Alliance, Midcentral DHB and Sports Manawatū holding stalls and activities for the public.
In a press release, Rangitāne representative Chris Whaiapu said the day-long celebration will feature a free BBQ, engaging storytelling, and a concert with nationally renowned artists.
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“We’re thrilled to bring the community together to celebrate Waitangi Day in Palmerston North. This is a day for reflection and celebration of our national identity and we look forward to connecting with our community,” he said.
DAVID UNWIN/Stuff
Rangitāne o Manawatū and Palmerston North City Council will hold a joint Waitangi Day commemoration at Te Marae o Hine – The Square in Palmerston North.
Later in the day, the iwi will inform the public about their partnership with the council, their settlement with the Crown and their plans for the future.
“Come and kōrero with us. This will be a chance for you to learn more about us as mana whenua of Palmerston North, and to learn a bit more about Te Tiriti o Waitangi.”
From 3:30pm a concert by musician Anna Coddington, who was recently rescued from the Auckland flood, as well as Te Kura Huia and Ia Māori Music Collective will entertain the public until 6:30pm.
MetService forecasted heavy showers for Monday, and given the outdoor nature of the event, the organisers have been watching the weather closely.
“If heavy rain or severe weather persists and it’s a risk to the safety of event-goers and vendors, we’ll make a decision on Sunday whether to cancel the event or not,” Whaiapu said.
