Free family event

Music, food, art and entertainment will be used to celebrate New Zealand’s heritage at Okahu Bay on Waitangi Day.

The free family event is in its third year
and Auckland City Council arts, culture and recreation chairman Greg Moyle encourages everyone to head along.

"The event is a great way to recognise the significance of the treaty signing and the broader relationship between Auckland City Council and Ngati Whatua," says Mr Moyle.

A traditional powhiri by Ngati Whatua o Orakei kicks off the day’s events, followed by live entertainment from New Zealand acts Cornerstone Roots, Six60, Herbs, Three Houses Down and 1814.

"The festival provides an opportunity for all Aucklanders to acknowledge the joint founding of this nation and this city together," says Ngati Whatua o Orakei Trust Board member Ngarimu Blair.

As well as being alcohol, drug and smoke free, Waitangi Day Festival 2010 is also a zero-waste event.

There will be some road closures around Tamaki Drive and surrounding streets on the day.

For more information visit www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/events/.

- © Fairfax NZ News