Kāi Tahu to gather at Treaty Grounds

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will not be able to use Kāi Tahu’s Waitangi Day gathering as a reason not to attend this year’s commemorations at Waitangi.

This year, in an unprecedented political move, instead of holding its usual regional South Island event, Kāi Tahu will take its gathering to the Treaty Grounds.

Traditionally, Kāi Tahu holds Waitangi Day commemorations at the places Te Tiriti o Waitangi was signed in Te Waipounamu (the South Island) — Ōnuku on Banks Peninsula, Awarua near Bluff, and Ōtākou near Dunedin — on a three-year rotation.

Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou was due to host this year’s commemorations at its Otago Peninsula marae, after last hosting there in 2023.

Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou upoko Edward Ellison referred to a statement released by the rūnaka on Monday night, which said it would "lead a Kāi Tahu ope [group] to Waitangi, which means the usual Kāi Tahu commemoration in the takiwā [region] will not take place".

"Our intention is to go to Waitangi in the spirit of kotahitaka [unity].

"Strengthening our ties with iwi in the north is an important part of honouring this moment.

"Given the current political climate, we believe it is vital that iwi stand together to ensure our collective voice remains strong."

Last year, Mr Luxon bypassed commemorations at the Treaty Grounds at Waitangi in favour of Kāi Tahu’s event at Ōnuku.

Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou’s statement said it had always carried the flame of political leadership, protest, whawhai (fight) and wero (challenge), and "this commitment continues to guide our decisions".

"We look forward to being part of the wider kaupapa at Waitangi and standing with iwi from across the motu in unity and shared purpose."

Although it would not be hosting an event at Ōtākou Marae this year, they nonetheless encouraged whānau to spend time together on February 6.

"It’s also a chance to reflect on what brings us together and the strength that comes from standing as one."