177 years ago, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed.
We have comprehensive coverage of events
held throughout the country to mark our national day.
We begin our coverage in Waitangi
where our founding document was signed.
Reporter Irena Smith has been there since dawn
observing the day's activities and joins us live.
The powhiri to kick start Waitangi Day was held right here.
The spirit of the speeches centred on unity.
Nevertheless, challenges were made by one Ngapuhi leader.
He asserted the treaty has not reached its potential for Maori.
The deputy prime minister is welcomed to Waitangi.
It's a time to pray for the future and prosperity of a nation
and its founding document.
Sonny Tau says the treaty has not yet reached its potential
for Maoridom.
Maoridom are lagging far behind in areas such as crime and health,
it's us who are at the bottom of the heap.
He also says
while there is a lot being said, not a lot of it is being fulfilled.
But the question to Ngapuhi leaders
is when will we see some of their treaty negotiations finalised?
We've started to work together with the idea
that with Ngapuhi united we'll be able to get it settled.
Due to the to-and-fro that happened at Te Ti this year
the Waitangi Trust Committee are working on considerations
about whether or not it is time
to move the powhiri for dignitaries and politicians
to Waitangi Marae instead.
For those who are practising and showcasing the customs of old
there is a time for politics
and a time to focus and uplift the true spirit of Waitangi
and the reason why so many come to this sacred land.
Waitangi Day commemorations are almost over for another year.
Perhaps in the future there will be changes made
which will see the PM return.
The majority believe the PM should physically be here
to commemorate the day.
Thank you Irena Smith for the update.