Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Waitangi Day

We were anchored near the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for the kids' sailing camp and decided we would spend a day at the Treaty Grounds museum.  In what has become typical Fluenta fashion, our full day actually turned out to be two days at the museum.  It is very well presented and worth the time and money.

One of Johnathan's pictures of the Haka in the Te Whare Rūnanga (the House of Assembly)

and then Haka lessons after

This dancer was great.  He spent a lot of time with us after the performance first teaching Johnathan the haka but then just generally talking about Māori legends.

This waka, Ngātokimatawhaorua, is the reputed to the world’s largest at 35m.

The treaty ground are also ideal for a spot of cricket. Fluenta is anchored just off to the right of the photo.

After coming back from Fiji, we spent a few days sorting out some boat issues and then managed to get anchored back in front of the Treaty Grounds just in time for Waitangi Day.  Waitangi Day is similar to Canada Day back home and recognizes the signing of the treaty between the British Crown and the Māori chiefs.  Lots of material for the kids' homeschool assignments and an interesting day ashore.

The flag pole.

Johnathan's photo as the paddlers prepare to board Ngātokimatawhaorua on Waitangi Day

The water around where Fluenta was anchored was filled with traditional waka taua (war canoes)

as well as some more modern ones....

The view from Fluenta towards the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

The Waitaingi Day Parade

Interestingly, the RNZN also has a Māori ceremonial group for parades such as this.

After awhile, the kids came up with their own entertainment and designed and built a catapult.

A great day with the Honey crew.