On February 6, in solidarity with our New Zealand Sisters, Brigidines honour Waitangi Day!
Waitangi Day is considered one of the most important days in the calendar for Aotearoa New Zealand. It is a public national holiday and a day of commemoration, reflection and celebration.
Waitangi Day commemorates the signing of the treaty which established a political agreement between the British Crown and the Māori people. The treaty, known as the Treaty of Waitangi, takes its name from the place in the Bay of Islands where it was first signed, on 6 February 1840.
The Treaty of Waitangi ‘s purpose was to ensure a peaceful future for everyone in New Zealand and as such, is considered the founding document of New Zealand.
However, over 500 Maori chiefs signed a Maori – language version of the treaty. In more recent times some differences in meaning between the Maori and English versions of the treaty, have presented significant challenges in New Zealand.
On Waitangi Day, 2025:
– We acknowledge and honour the Maori people of New Zealand and give thanks for their deep environmental understanding, respectful cultures, wisdom and hospitality.
– We give thanks for our Brigidine Sisters, Brigidine past pupils and friends of Brigidines in New Zealand – who work and pray for justice and peace.
For all New Zealand citizens,
may Waitangi Day be a hope-filled time of reflection, of inclusive and communal experiences, of gratitude for the country’s rich diversity – and of healing.
