3 Feb 2012

Waitangi events at two venues in Hawke's Bay

7:49 am on 3 February 2012

Waitangi Day celebrations in Hawke's Bay will be split between two venues for a second consecutive year.

Events next to the Ngaruroro awa (Clive River) include a re- enactment of early settlers arriving by boat, waka rides and signing a treaty of peace and understanding.

Celebrations at the Regional Sports Park near Hastings include entertainment, regional kapa haka competitions and games for adults and children.

Ngati Kahungunu chairman Ngahiwi Tomoana says having two main venues is a positive move.

He says until last year, celebrations were staggered throughout the day all over the region, making it difficult for him any many others to attend them all.

Mr Tomoana says will he be helping lead a dawn hikoi from Waipatu near Hastings to the Clive River. Another hikoi will leave at the same time from Napier.