Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Journey through Aotearoa New Zealand’s most important historic site at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, often called the Birthplace of the Nation. Located in the Bay of Islands, this significant heritage destination weaves together stories of people, events and places revealing our rich cultural history. Admission includes access to two contemporary museums, Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi and Te Rau Aroha Museum of the Price of Citizenship, plus Treaty House, Te Whare Rūnanga, the world’s largest ceremonial waka Ngātokimatawhaorua, and a full programme of guided tours and cultural performances.

Te Kōngahu Museum presents Ko Waitangi Tēnei exhibition, telling the Treaty story from multiple perspectives through over 500 images, six immersive audio-visual experiences, and interactive touchscreens. Te Rau Aroha explores the price of citizenship through powerful taonga and stories. The magnificent Treaty House, built in 1832, served as the British Resident’s home where significant Treaty discussions occurred. Te Whare Rūnanga, the carved meeting house completed in 1940, showcases intricate carvings representing Māori tribes throughout New Zealand.

Cultural performances run throughout the day, featuring inspiring pōwhiri welcomes, waiata, poi and traditional haka inside Te Whare Rūnanga. Visitors meet performers afterward for photos and questions. The grounds include Ngātokimatawhaorua, the 35-metre waka taua built in 1940 and launched annually during Waitangi Day commemorations. Guided tours provide deep insights into New Zealand’s founding documents and ongoing Treaty journey. Your two-day admission allows thorough exploration of this inspiring destination where history lives and evolves.

About this Activity

• Free cancellation – Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Reserve now & pay later – Keep your travel plans flexible
• Duration – Allow 3-5 hours minimum, two-day admission included
• Opening Hours – Open daily except Christmas Day, 9am-5pm (extended summer hours)

Key Highlights & Facts

• Two Contemporary Museums: Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi and Te Rau Aroha Museum of the Price of Citizenship
• Cultural Performances: Daily pōwhiri, waiata, poi and haka performances (multiple daily sessions)
• World’s Largest Waka: Ngātokimatawhaorua ceremonial war canoe, 35 metres long
• Historic Treaty House: 1832 building where Treaty discussions occurred
• Te Whare Rūnanga: Carved meeting house with intricate tribal carvings from throughout New Zealand
• Guided Tours: Complimentary tours throughout the day with expert guides
• Two-Day Admission: Valid for two consecutive days to fully explore the grounds
• Evening Experience: Hangi dinner and cultural performance available October-April

Prepare for Your Trip (Important Information)

• Admission: Entry fees apply, children under 18 free when accompanied by parent/caregiver
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, camera, hat, sunscreen, water bottle
• Cultural Performances: Daily at 11am, 1pm, 3pm (extended schedule peak season December-February)
• Facilities: Whare Waka Café onsite, gift shop, restrooms throughout grounds
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible pathways and facilities available
• Dogs: Not permitted except guide dogs (grounds are home to kiwi)
• Photography: Welcome throughout grounds and performances
• Location: Waitangi, 5 minutes from Paihia, Bay of Islands
• Nearby Attractions: Haruru Falls, Paihia waterfront, Russell historic village, Bay of Islands cruises