The Treaty of Waitangi is the founding document of New Zealand; it is basically a formal agreement, in both English and Maori that was made between over 500 Maori chiefs and the British Crown. 

During the late 1830s considerable numbers of British settlers arrived in the islands of New Zealand and many more were expected to come. At this time there was disruptive and questionable conduct on the part of some of the migrants with the Maoris regarding land ownership. There were also indications that France was interested in acquiring the colony by force. At first the British government was not interested in taking meaningful action, but later came to the realisation that taking over the area would help control the actions of the British settlers, provide protection for the Maori and safeguard Britain’s business interests in the region. Accordingly a treaty was drafted and after extensive discussion between the Maori chiefs, was signed by all concerned.

The site where the treaty was signed, now known as the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, is one of New Zealand’s foremost historic locations. The Treaty Grounds form a section of the Waitangi National Trust estate which was gifted to the state by the Bledisloes, the gentry who held the land. Today the Waitangi Treaty Grounds include a variety of fascinating items such as a Maori meeting house complete with carvings representing the Maori people; the Treaty House, constructed for the first Resident from Britain; a Maori war canoe; a Visitor Centre featuring cultural performances and audio-visual presentations; all amidst luxuriant grounds with trees, gardens and many kinds of native birdlife.

For the traveler who seeks a comfortable hotel in Waitangi Bay of Islands, a suitable choice is the Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands, situated on the shores of the picturesque Bay of Islands harbour.