10 Fun Waitangi Day Activities For Kids To Celebrate New Zealand’s National Day
Waitangi Day is one of the most important days in New Zealand’s history. Celebrated annually on the 6th of February, it marks the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, which established a partnership between the Māori people and the British Crown. It is a day full of history, culture, and pride for New Zealanders, and a great opportunity to teach kids about the importance of the day.
If you’re looking for fun activities to do with your kids this Waitangi Day, here are 10 ideas to get you started. Each of these activities can easily be adapted to fit the age and interests of your children, and you can add more of your own ideas to make the day extra special.
1. Make a Te Reo Word Wall
Te reo Māori (the Māori language) is an integral part of New Zealand’s cultural identity. Spend some time researching some Te Reo words with your kids and create a Te Reo Word Wall. This is a great way to learn about the language and culture of the Māori people. You can also add facts about the Treaty of Waitangi and the history of Waitangi Day. A Te Reo Word Wall is a great way to celebrate New Zealand’s national day.
2. Create a Waitangi Day Feast
What better way to celebrate Waitangi Day than by creating a traditional Māori feast? Get your kids involved in the cooking process and teach them about the ingredients and traditions behind the dishes. Some traditional Māori dishes include Boil Up, Hangi and Kina. Ask your kids to help you cook these dishes, or create a modern twist on a classic. Don’t forget the hāngī stones, which are used to cook food in a hāngī, or underground oven.
3. Attend a Waitangi Day Festival
Many towns and cities in New Zealand hold Waitangi Day festivals, with activities such as music and dance performances, traditional food stalls, and cultural activities. Attending a Waitangi Day Festival is a great way to experience the culture and history of the Māori people. It’s also an opportunity to learn about the history of Waitangi Day and the Treaty of Waitangi. You can find out if your local area has a Waitangi Day Festival by searching online.
4. Visit a Marae
A marae is a traditional Māori meeting place and is an important part of Māori culture. Visiting a marae is a great way to learn about the history and culture of the Māori people and to experience the hospitality of a Māori community. Many marae offer tours and activities for children, such as learning about the history of the marae, traditional games, and craft activities.
5. Fly the New Zealand Flag
The New Zealand flag is a symbol of national pride and a reminder of the partnership between the Māori people and the British Crown. Why not get your kids to make their own New Zealand flags and fly them proudly on Waitangi Day? You can find instructions online to help you make the flags, or you can purchase them from a local store.
6. Make a Kōwhaiwhai Artwork
Kōwhaiwhai is a traditional Māori art form featuring intricate patterns, usually painted on a wooden board. It is used to decorate the walls of marae and to tell stories about Māori history and culture. Making a Kōwhaiwhai artwork is a great way to learn about the Māori culture, and it’s also a fun and creative activity for kids. You can find instructions online to help you make your own Kōwhaiwhai artwork.
7. Take a Nature Walk
New Zealand is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. Take your kids on a nature walk and explore the beautiful forests, beaches, and mountains of your local area. Ask them to identify the different plants and animals they see, and teach them about the importance of preserving the environment. You can also use the opportunity to talk to them about the history of Waitangi Day and the Treaty of Waitangi.
8. Play Traditional Māori Games
The Māori people have a long history of playing traditional games. Get your kids involved in some traditional Māori games such as Ki-o-Rahi, Kī-o-Rua, and Māori Stick Games. These games are great for teaching kids about the culture and history of the Māori people, as well as having lots of fun!
9. Visit a Māori Village
Visiting a Māori village is a great way to learn about the culture and history of the Māori people. Many Māori villages offer guided tours, where you can learn about the history of the village and the people who live there. You can also take part in traditional cultural activities such as poi and kapa haka.
10. Watch the Waitangi Day Celebrations
Waitangi Day is celebrated in many different ways around the country. Watch the Waitangi Day celebrations on TV or online and talk to your kids about the history and culture of the Māori people. This is a great way to learn about the day and to experience the spirit of Waitangi Day from the comfort of your own home.
Waitangi Day is an important day in New Zealand’s history and a great opportunity to celebrate the culture and history of the Māori people. These 10 fun activities can help your kids learn about the day and have lots of fun at the same time!
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