By Mayor Anita Baker
Each year, thousands of people come together to mark the day in a way that feels distinctly Porirua, open, welcoming, and genuinely community-led.
It’s a chance to reflect, but just as importantly, it’s a chance to enjoy each other’s company and celebrate who we are as a community now.
I want to begin by acknowledging Ngāti Toa Rangatira, tangata whenua of this place, and our partners in bringing the celebration together. The relationship between council and iwi isn’t a slogan here, it’s something we practise, and it sits at the heart of how Porirua works.
This is the largest community-led Waitangi Day celebration in the country, and it doesn’t happen by accident. Council staff, volunteers, performers, stallholders, and community groups all put in an enormous amount of effort behind the scenes to make it possible.
Waitangi Day invites us to think about partnership, not just as a historical idea, but as something lived and experienced. In Porirua, partnership shows up in how we make decisions, how we support one another, and how we build a city where people feel they belong.
The celebration itself reflects that spirit. There’s a full programme on stage, activities across the Arena and Pātaka, waka on the water, and kai for every appetite. It’s designed to be shared, with whānau, friends, and people you haven’t met yet.
As we head into Waitangi Day, I encourage everyone to take the time to enjoy what’s on offer and to reflect on the values that bring us together.
Thank you for being part of what makes Porirua such a special place.
Programme
12–12.40pm
Pōwhiri with Ngāti Toa Kaumatua Dr Taku Parai
Welcome from Porirua Mayor Anita Baker, Te Puna Reo o Ngāti Toa, and Aotea College Kapa Haka
12.35–1pm
Mollie Mato
1.05–1.25pm
Rei
1.25–1.45pm
Lisa Tomlins ft OTC
2–2.20pm
Ben Makisi
2.20–2.40pm
Des Mallon Blues & The Mel-O-D Makers
2.45–3.05pm
Kenzie from Wellys
3.10–4.10pm
Sons of Zion
4.15–4.35pm
Wiz Tokelau
4.40–5pm
Brotha Rodz