Waitangi Day may mark the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, but for the Greymouth Waitangi Day Committee it’s also about something very down to earth – bringing people together and feeding the community. And not just a few people… around 2,000 of them.
The very first Waitangi Day picnic was held in the early 2000s as an initiative of then Mayor Kevin Brown, supported by Council and delivered as a Combined Churches and community celebration. The organisers thought they might attract 200 people. Instead, 800 turned up. From there, the event quickly took off, with crowds often topping 1,000.
The Lions Club were involved from the very beginning and, over time, their support expanded. They helped roof the stage area, fix subsidence, re-level the platform and install power – making it possible for live bands and performances.
Trish Briggs (Treasurer) has been involved for eight years. “I used to bring my grandchildren along,” she says. “Now it’s my way of giving back to the community”. Trish explains that after the event outgrew its early beginnings, Council ran it for a time before Tu Kaha took over, ensuring it stayed community-led and free for everyone.
Zak Neale (FENZ) says the day is a great opportunity to connect. “We get to meet other fire services from across the district, learn how a hāngī pit is built, and understand the safety measures involved.” Zak and the team will be bringing along the ever-popular Escape My House inflatable maze, which is always a hit with the kids, as well as a slippery slide.
Pauline Southorn (Kaiwhakahaere/Manager and Māori Warden) confirmed they will be on site assisting with hāngī preparation and serving, keeping an eye on tamariki and providing support wherever it is needed throughout the day.
On the day, the community can look forward to:
- A free community hāngī
- A free BBQ hosted by the Lions Club
- Kids’ entertainment
- Live music and performances
- A craft market on Brunner Street, as well as ice cream, donuts and candyfloss
Of course, none of this happens without some serious preparation. On the Thursday night before the event, committee members and volunteers gather for the legendary vege-peeling session, working their way through:
- 100kg of potatoes
- 100kg of kūmara
- 25 pumpkins
As well as turning seven cartons of bread, onions and mixed herbs into stuffing. Fish is also marinated, ready to help feed the 2,000+ people expected to attend.
If you’re keen to lend a hand, the committee would love to hear from you. BYO peeler, and Pizza Hut will generously provide some dinner for the volunteers.
The picnic is on Friday, February 6.
Today, the event is carried forward by a small, dedicated committee of volunteers, supported by a wide network of community organisations. The 2026 event is largely community funded, with sponsorship from Cocoran French, Guthrie Bowron and Coast Toyota, to name just a few, and support from Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Greymouth Lions Club, Country Women’s Institute, Māori Wardens NZ, the Multicultural Council and the Grey District Youth Trust.
Photo: Zak Neale, Trish Briggs, Pauline Southorn
