Waitangi (Bay of Islands), New Zealand

Waitangi is the location on the Bay of Islands, in New Zealand’s North Island, where the historic Treaty of Waitangi was signed by representatives of Great Britain and the indigenous Maori people in 1840, founding the nation of New Zealand. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Museum tells the tale by means of a state-of-the-art Museum, with Maori treasures gathered from all over the country, and buildings including the so-called Treaty House and the Whare Runanga Maori Meeting House. In the latter building, visitors are treated to a thrilling and spirited haka ceremonial dance performance. Also on the grounds is a huge waka taua canoe carved from immense kauri logs.