Taiohi Manawataki will perform kapa haka at Waikato Museum on Waitangi Day. Photo / Supplied
Taiohi Manawataki will perform kapa haka at Waikato Museum on Waitangi Day. Photo / Supplied
Waikato Museum is organising a full day of celebrations on Thursday to mark Waitangi Day.
Museum director Cherie Meecham says: "We're gearing up for a full day of celebrations with kapa haka and multicultural performances, storytelling, crafts and traditional Māori games for children, interactive weaving workshops, as well asa serious panel discussion on the impact of Tiriti o Waitangi on women."
The all-day event will run from 10am to 4pm and entry is free.
"Our Waitangi Day event has grown every year as more and more people are now wanting to find a way to commemorate the day with their whānau, to have some fun, but also to consider what it means for us as a nation," says Ms Meecham.
"We're a bi-cultural institution with responsibility for preserving and telling the stories of our region, and so this is an important day for us – and we're looking forward to it."
"We want to help bring people together in a way that is enjoyable, to learn a bit more about Waitangi Day, and to make the day one of togetherness, unity and reflection."
For the full programme of events, go to the Waikato Museum website: http://waikatomuseum.co.nz/waitangiday
There will also be Waitangi Day commemorations at the Western Community Centre in Elliot Park in Nawton.
Te Ruunanga o Kirikiriroa's event will include performances, entertainment, and activities. Food and craft stalls, as well as a 'talking tent', will be set up.
The events run 9am to 3pm at the Western Community Centre, 46 Hyde Ave. Free entry.