Navy honours history at this year's Waitangi Day celebrations
The Chief of Navy says he is honoured to be attending Waitangi Day celebrations and continuing the Royal New Zealand Navy’s long history of playing an important role in celebrating the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
03 February, 2025
Every year on 6 February, New Zealanders and visitors alike gather at Waitangi. The RNZN is invited annually by Te Tai Tokerau to attend Waitangi Day and perform a range of full ceremonial duties.
Representing the RNZN will be Chief of Navy Rear Admiral (RADM) Garin Golding along with a large contingent of Navy personnel.
“I have been to Waitangi many times, but my first as Chief of Navy will certainly have special significance,” said RADM Golding.
“The invitation by Te Tai Tokerau has always been a great honour for our Navy and an absolute privilege to be part of.”
“This day is a taonga for our nation and we’re grateful we can share it with the people of this region, other New Zealanders and visitors to our shores.”
RADM Golding will be joined this year by Chief of Army, Major General Rose King, and Chief of Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Darryn Webb.
This year the RNZN’s multi-role sealift vessel HMNZS Canterbury, will be anchored off Waitangi between 4-6 February.
Other RNZN involvement in the celebrations will include the Navy band performing at the Village Green in Paihia on Tuesday the 4th with a Beat Retreat and Ceremonial Sunset Ceremony at the Treaty Ground flagpole on Wednesday evening, 5 February.
A 50-person Guard of Honour will conduct the ceremonial lowering of the New Zealand White Ensign, signifying the end of the day. This will be reviewed by the Chief of Navy.
At midday on Waitangi Day, Tuesday 6 February, HMNZS Canterbury will fire a 21-gun salute to observe the 185th Anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. The RNZN Māori Cultural Group will also give a series of performances on the Treaty Grounds.