Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The birthplace of NZ (as opposed to Aotearoa), Waitangi inhabits a special, somewhat
complex place in the national psyche - aptly demonstrated by the mixture of celebration,
commemoration, protest and apathy that accompanies the nation's birthday (Waitangi
Day, 6 February).
It was here that the long-neglected and much-contested Treaty of Waitangi was first
signed between Maori chiefs and the British Crown, establishing British sovereignty or
something a bit like it, depending on whether you're reading the English or Maori ver-
sion of the document. If you're interested in coming to grips with NZ's history and race
relations, this is the place to start.
Joined to Waitangi by a bridge, Paihia would be a fairly nondescript coastal town if it
wasn't the main entry point to the Bay of Islands. If you're not on a tight budget, catch a
ferry to Russell, which is far nicer.
There are some good walks in the area, including an easy 5km track that follows the
coast from Opua to Paihia.
