Northland - History

Northland | Regional Information | Activity Highlights | Scenic Highlights | History

Many places in Northland hold historic significance, not the least of which is Waitangi, in the Bay of Islands.

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Northland History Overview

Northland is thought to be the first part of New Zealand to be discovered and walked upon by the early Maori settlers. Later European settlers began to arrive and colonise the land. A treaty between the Maori and the Europeans was signed some years later in Waitangi, and Northland became known as the 'birthplace of a nation'.

Early History

Approximately 1,000 years ago, the legendary Maori explorer, Kupe discovered New Zealand. It is claimed that the first landfall of Kupe's waka (or canoe) was on the shores of the Hokianga Harbour.

In 1769 Captain Cook discovered New Zealand. Once news of the discovery reached Britain, traders, whalers and sealers began to arrive.

Image Source: Tourism New Zealand. Maori carving at Waitangi Marae in Waitangi, Northland, New Zealand

Maori Carving at Waitangi Marae
Waitangi, Northland
Photographer: Ben Crawford
(www.bencrawford.co.nz)

In 1840 the Treaty of Waitangi was drawn up and signed by representatives of the Crown and representatives of the Maori iwi and hapu.

Waitangi, the birthplace of a nation

At the Treaty House in Waitangi, Maori and European leaders signed the Treaty of Waitangi on 6^th February, 1840. It was also signed in other locations around the country in the following months, but is known as the Treaty of Waitangi because it was first signed there. The treaty was an exchange of promises and still serves as the founding document for the nation of New Zealand.

The Treaty House stands proudly amidst a vast, peaceful park. Also of interest on the site is a fully carved Maori Meeting House, one of the largest remaining Maori war canoes and a superb visitor centre and gallery. Waitangi is a place that all New Zealanders belong to—it's a 'must see' for any visitor interested in New Zealand's history and culture.

Historic Hokianga

The headwaters of the Hokianga Harbour are framed by spectacular giant (300 metres) sand dunes—an amazing place to swim, fish, explore or go sand dune surfing. Further up the harbour is Rawene, New Zealand's third oldest European settlement and the home of historic Clendon house. The recently completed mangrove walk makes a great stroll.

Many small picturesque villages dot the Hokianga, including the old logging town of Kohukohu, and the twin settlements of Omapere and Opononi (made famous in 1955 - 1956 by Opo the dolphin).