Joint celebration for Te Tiriti

Monday’s commemorations could represent an opportunity for everyone in Manawatū to learn about mana whenua and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Local iwi Rangitā ne 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 District Health Board and Sports Manawatū holding stalls and activities for the public.

In a press release, Rangitā ne representative Chris Whaiapu said the day-long celebration would feature a free barbecue, engaging storytelling, and a concert with nationally renowned artists.

‘‘We are 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.

Later in the day, the iwi will inform the public about its partnership with the council, its settlement with the Crown, and plans for the future. ‘‘Come and kō rero 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 will be staged by musician Anna Coddington, who was recently rescued from the Auckland flooding, as well as Te Kura Huia and Ia Mā ori Music Collective. They will entertain the public until 6.30pm.

MetService has forecast heavy showers for Monday and, given the event’s outdoor nature, the organisers have been watching the weather closely. ‘‘If heavy rain or severe weather persists and it is a risk to the safety of event-goers and vendors, we will make a decision on Sunday whether to cancel or not,’’ Whaiapu said.

‘‘This is a day for reflection and celebration of our national identity.’’

Chris Whaiapu

Rangitāne