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The Waitangi National Reserve is a 506 hectare reserve situated in the beautiful Bay of Islands. This is the site where Te Tiriti o Waitangi was first signed on 6 February 1840.

On arrival you will notice the amazing sea views, extensive park-like grounds with abundant native bird life, heritage gardens, trees, and mangrove boardwalk.

Visitors see the restored Treaty House, the magnificently carved Mäori meeting house Te Whare Runanga, and the Mäori war canoe Ngatokimatawhaorua.

The Treaty House was built for the first British Resident, James Busby and his family. It is one of New Zealand's oldest and most visited historic homes .

Te Whare Runanga is a stunning fully carved Maori Meeting House, which is representative of all Iwi (regional tribes) in New Zealand. Te Whare Runanga, named Te Tiriti o Waitangi, was presented to the people of New Zealand on the centenary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on the 6th February 1940.

Housed at Hobson Beach on the estate, Ngatokimatawhaorua is one of the largest ceremonial waka (canoes) in the world. Ngatokimatawhaorua takes part in each Waitangi Day commemoration, requiring a minimum of 76 paddlers to handle it safely on the water.

The many displays and exhibits, and an audio-visual presentation on Mäori culture and taonga Mäori provide an important insight into early New Zealand history.

The resident Maori cultural group entertains and informs with a 30-minute journey in traditional and contemporary story and song. Performances are at 10.30 a.m. 11.30 a.m. and 1.00 p.m. for the winter months of May to August. Hours are subject to change during the summer months.

While there make sure you check out the Waikokopu Cafe. The Waikokopu Cafe offers awarded cuisine, fine wine and seriously good coffee

Waitangi Treaty Grounds is where, in 1840, two peoples forged a relationship that has grown into nationhood. Now this historic place is also available for weddings. The Treaty Grounds has many fantastic settings available for your perfect cermony. From magnificent lawns with sweeping vistas of the Bay of Islands, cherished historic buildings, native bush, to Gardens of National Significance.

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds opens daily at 9.00 a.m. excluding Christmas Day.

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