South Island, New Zealand
Waitangi Day holds a special place in all Kiwis' hearts as it is the day when New Zealand became a nation. It is celebrated every year on February 6, the date when the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between 40 Māori chiefs and the British to make the nation of New Zealand. The founding document has inspired many to recognize the importance of cultural and political rights of the country, not just on this day, but every day. The festivities start typically early on the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where celebrants take part in exceptional carving competitions and soak in the cultural performances to set the mood.
