HMNZS TE KAHA departed Devonport Naval Base this morning heading north to Waitangi for the 175th commemoration of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi – Te Tiriti O Waitangi.

The Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) has a large presence at this week's Waitangi commemorations which includes four ships, the Navy Band and sailors who will conduct ceremonial activities.

HMNZS TE KAHA.

Public ceremonial activities will take place between February 4-6 around the region and on the Treaty Grounds.

The RNZN has strong historical ties to Waitangi and with the people of Tai Tokerau.

In 1946 the RNZN took responsibility for the flagstaff with Waitangi National Trust granting the RNZN access to conduct naval ceremonies at the flagstaff as it saw fit.

The RNZN has maintained this role to date.

The most important charter given to the RNZN is at Waitangi, which was granted by the people of Tai Tokerau in 1990 granting the Navy the charter to parade on Tai Tokerau lands and on Waitangi grounds.

The ships attending Waitangi activities will all depart between now and the evening of February 4.