The New Zealand Navy had a major role at Waitangi both on Waitangi Day Wednesday 6 February and the previous day, with Colours ceremonies, a 21 Gun Salute, Beat Retreat, Sunset Ceremony, a Navy Band concert and much more.
HMNZS TE MANA was at anchor for the duration.
The Navy presence at Waitangi marks the visit of LT William Hobson RN there in February 1840 when he negotiated the Treaty of Waitangi with the assembled chiefs. The Navy has been going to Waitangi since 1947.
“Our people provided the central part of the commemorations, with thousands of people coming along to watch our Band, cultural group and Guard strut their stuff,” says Chief of Navy, Rear Admiral Jack Steer . “His Excellency Lieutenant General the Right Honourable Sir Jerry Mataparae reviewed the Guard on the treaty grounds and was well impressed. The 21 Gun Salute fired by TE MANA certainly had the crowd buzzing. It goes without saying that everything the Navy did at Waitangi was very well received.”
The event was attended by CN Rear Admiral Jack Steer, His Excellency the Governor General Lieutenant General the Right Honourable Sir Jerry Mateparae, Lady Janine Mateparae, Prime Minister John Key, HMNZS TE MANA CO Commander Shane Arndell along with other dignitaries.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, February 8, 2013; Image: RNZN