Western Bay Museum is inviting the community to commemorate Waitangi Day in fine fashion this year with funding from the Ministry of Culture and Heritage.

“Our diverse community is coming together to commemorate this special ‘agreement’ between Māori and Crown,” says Pou Mātauranga Maori, Hone Winder Murray.

“We will share what Te Tiriti means from an array of cultures and ages. It is a day of togetherness, unity and commemoration.”

At 6.30am on the museum forecourt for ‘the Flag Ceremony’ where the Tino Rangatiratanga National Māori flag and the flag of Aotearoa will be raised and honoured.

The National Anthem will be played by the Tongan Brass Band.

Attendees will then move to the marque and seating area where a service will be held.  An array of speakers have been asked to share what Te Tiriti and The Treaty mean to them today.

The Tongan Band will be playing as a free barbecue breakfast will be served. 

There will be two free movies showing at The Arts Junction Theatre, intended for those who are part of this festive occasion and ultimately the power of unity – a showing of ‘Whina’ at 9am and a showing of ‘Boy’ at 12 noon.

People can pick up their free movie tickets from The Arts Junction, Katikati. For more information, phone Paula Gaelic on: 027 440 1005.