The Hikoi of Unity arriving at Farndon Park in Clive on Waitangi Day. Photo / NZME
The Hikoi of Unity arriving at Farndon Park in Clive on Waitangi Day. Photo / NZME
A kaumatua has paid special tribute to one of his ancestors who signed Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi) in Hawke’s Bay in 1840, during a Waitangi Day commemoration event.
Waitangi Day events attracted strong crowds on Friday’s public holiday, boosted by near-perfect weather.
The region’s first event sawwell over 100 people take part in the annual Hikoi of Unity.
A performance at the Ngāti Kahungunu iwi's family fun day in Hastings. Photo / Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Inc
That event included a karakia at Waitangi Regional Park’s Atea a Rangi – near where the Treaty was signed – followed by a walk to Clive’s Farndon Park.
Kaumatua Jerry Hapuku came carrying a picture of his direct ancestor, Te Hāpuku, one of three chiefs who signed the Treaty in Hawke’s Bay in June 1840.
Kaumatua Jerry Hapuku with a picture of his director ancestor, chief Te Hapuku, who signed the Treaty. Photo / NZME
The kaumatua said it was “a special day” commemorating the signing.
He said his tipuna (ancestor) had signed the Treaty to give mana to his hapū.
