Investment to preserve Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Investment to preserve Waitangi Treaty Grounds

The Government will provide $8 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support the continued operation and preservation of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka say. “Waitangi is where the story of modern New Zealand began. It is a place of immense national significance, a place of nationhood,” Mr Jones says. “Preserving heritage buildings, museums, cultural facilities and public infrastructure at a site of this significance is an essential and ongoing investment. This pūtea from the Regional Infrastructure Fund will help ensure this taonga remains accessible, vibrant and fit for future generations.” The Waitangi Treaty Grounds attract more than 160,000 visitors each year and is one of Northland's premier visitor destinations, supporting regional tourism, employment and economic activity. The grant will help support the continued operation of the Treaty Grounds while investing in the infrastructure and assets needed to maintain public access and support educational, cultural and commemorative programmes. Mr Potaka says Waitangi holds a unique place in New Zealand's identity. “Waitangi is where many New Zealanders come to better understand Te Tiriti o Waitangi and reflect on the events and people who shaped our nation. “This investment from the Crown will help preserve that opportunity while supporting the cultural, educational and commemorative programmes that make the Treaty Grounds a living and enduring taonga.” Previous regional development funding has supported the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and associated infrastructure, including $10.2m from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) for Treaty Grounds infrastructure upgrades, $1.57m from the RIF for the sealing and upgrade of Haruru Falls Road, a secondary access route to the Treaty Grounds; and $14.50m from the Provincial Growth Fund for Te Rau Aroha – the Māori Battalion Museum. “As we look towards the bicentenary of Waitangi Day in 2040, we are ensuring this nationally significant taonga has the infrastructure and support worthy of its place in our nation's story,” Mr Jones says.