Seabrae Manor Aged Care recently celebrated Waitangi Day. This is New Zealand’s National Day and a public Holiday, similar to our Australia Day.
Waitangi Day commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi back on the 6th February 1840. The treaty was signed by representatives acting on behalf of the British Crown and approximately 45 Maori chiefs from around the country. It is regarding as New Zealand’s founding document. Waitangi is in the Bay of Island (North Island). The signing secured British sovereignty over the New Zealand islands. However, there have been of the year’s protests concerning treaty injustices by which the Europeans had conned the Maori’s out of their land.
There are many of our neighbours living in Australia including residents and staff, so it was fitting that we celebrate with them in true Kiwi fashion.
Residents tried their hand at a fierce Haka for the camera, the stick game called Ti Rakau and even had a go at swinging the Pois. It was a great interactive afternoon with lots of laughter and games enjoyed by both residents, family and staff.
A local Kapa haka group also visited the residents. Maori songs were performed for the residents and there was a lot of New Zealander culture shared. The residents and family members tried their hand at the New Zealander poi dance, which was a lot of fun.
We are all looking forward to the next Waitangi Day! It will be “Choice bro”!