A new exhibition at Tāmaki Paenga Hira, the Auckland War Memorial Museum focuses on how the Treaty of Waitangi affects New Zealanders today.
It aims to provide an insight into the history of the Treaty from various perspectives.
The first two iwi to tell their stories about the Treaty and how it has impacted on them and their people, are local Auckland tribes Ngāti Paoa and Ngāti Whatua.
Ngāti Paoa spokesperson Hauauru Rawiri says, “the exhibition gives Ngāti Paoa the opportunity to tell their stories, from a historical perspective and a personal perspective as well because 16 Ngāti Paoa ancestors signed the Treaty of Waitangi.”
Taiaha Hawke from Ngāti Whatua Orakei touches on the fact that the treaty was relevant to their ancestors who were alive at the time. It is also relevant to the descendants who are here today and it will remain so to the future generations.
With a strong interactive digital element, the display brings contemporary voices and personal stories to life at the touch of a finger.
The late, highly respected academic Dr Ranginui Walker DCNZM worked with the Waitangi Exhibit project team as an advisor and helped set the direction and focus of the display. He was acknowledged today.