About Waitangi Day (New Zealand)
Waitangi Day, February 6, is New Zealand's national day, marking the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 — the founding document of the modern nation and the agreement between the British Crown and Māori chiefs. It is a public holiday across Aotearoa New Zealand. This live Waitangi Day countdown shows exactly how many days, hours and minutes remain until the next February 6 in your own timezone.
The treaty was first signed on February 6, 1840 at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands, where the Treaty Grounds remain the focus of national commemorations. The day blends formal ceremony — including a dawn service, naval and cultural events and political speeches — with reflection on the treaty's promises and the ongoing debate over how they are honoured. Māori culture, kapa haka performance and waka canoes feature prominently.
Waitangi Day is held on February 6 every year, with the holiday observed on the following Monday when it falls on a weekend. This countdown targets the next February 6 and rolls over once it passes. Whether you join the commemorations at the Treaty Grounds or mark the day from afar, bookmark the live Waitangi Day countdown or add it to your own page.
Upcoming dates
| 2027 | Saturday, February 6, 2027next |
| 2028 | Sunday, February 6, 2028 |
| 2029 | Tuesday, February 6, 2029 |
| 2030 | Wednesday, February 6, 2030 |
| 2031 | Thursday, February 6, 2031 |
FAQ
When is Waitangi Day?
Waitangi Day is on February 6 every year. When it falls on a weekend, the public holiday is observed on the following Monday in New Zealand.
Why is Waitangi Day important?
It marks the 1840 signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document and the agreement between the British Crown and Māori, making it the country's national day.
How is Waitangi Day celebrated?
With ceremonies at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds — a dawn service, cultural and naval events, kapa haka and speeches — alongside reflection on the treaty and its legacy.
What was the Treaty of Waitangi?
It was the 1840 agreement between the British Crown and around 540 Māori chiefs that established British governance in New Zealand while addressing Māori rights — still central to the nation today.