The Beautiful Carvings of Waitangi Treaty Grounds

The flagstaff marks the spot where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed. 

The site includes the original treaty house, a carved meeting house, a museum and visitor centre, lush native forest and gardens, a traditional Māori waka (canoe), and venues for traditional performances and craftsmanship.

Te Whare Rūnanga (The House of Assembly) is a beautifully carved meeting house designed in traditional Māori form. The meeting house was opened for all the peoples of New Zealand on 6 February, 1940 and stands facing the Treaty House. 

The waka house on the site shelters the world's largest ceremonial war canoe. The name of the canoe comes from a traditional story from the Ngāpuhi tribe who reside near the treaty grounds.  

Cultural performances also take place at the meeting house, including songs and the haka, or war dance.