Funding for Waitangi 2010 commemorative events

A three day Waitangi festival in Northland featuring thirty waka, over 300 Kai hoe (rowers) a dawn karakia, sports events, a church service and a sunset ceremony is one of 77 events receiving funding announced today from the Ministry for Culture and Heritage’s Commemorating Waitangi Day Fund.

A total of $299,700 was approved by a panel convened by the Ministry. Events range from a multicultural community festival in Porirua, a civic picnic in Greymouth to a contribution to the official celebrations at Waitangi. The full list of events receiving support can be viewed on the Ministry’s website at www.mch.govt.nz.

The Commemorating Waitangi Day Fund supports events that celebrate New Zealand’s identity by commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi and promoting stronger national and community ties. The grants are given to encourage widespread national participation in Waitangi Day events.

The Ministry for Culture and Heritage administers the fund and assesses applications. Criteria include: encouraging community participation and achievement, promoting a cultural experience and event, and providing participants with an opportunity to learn more about the Treaty of Waitangi.